Bangladesh’s women’s cricket team continued their winning streak in T20 World Cup qualifiers, securing a fourth consecutive victory to advance to Super Six stage.
In their final Group A match, Nigar Sultana’s side defeated Ireland by 9 runs, thanks to resilient batting and controlled bowling from Swarna Akter and Rabeya Khan, finishing the group stage as unbeaten champions.
On Saturday at Nepal’s Mulpani Cricket Ground, Bangladesh captain won the toss and elected to bat first. The Tigresses posted 153 for 7 in their 20 overs.
In reply, Ireland could manage only 144 for 4, falling short of the target.
Opener Dilara Akter gave Bangladesh a strong start, scoring 35 off 27 balls. Sharmin Akter anchored the innings with a brilliant 52 off 45 balls, including five fours and a six.
Contributions from Juwairia Ferdous (11), captain Nigar Sultana (13) and Sohana Mostari’s late 30 helped Bangladesh post a challenging total.
For Ireland, Jane Maguire and Arlene Kelly took two wickets each.
Chasing 154, Ireland began aggressively, with openers Amy Hunter and Gabby Lewis putting together a 71-run partnership.
Lewis top-scored with a destructive 73 off 58 balls, while Hunter remained unbeaten on 35.
Bangladesh bowlers Swarna Akter and Rabeya Khan struck crucial wickets at key moments to slow the run rate, ultimately restricting Ireland to 144 runs.
With this victory, Bangladesh finished Group A with a perfect record; four wins in four matches, earning 8 points and topping the table.
Ireland secured second place with 4 points from three matches, followed by the USA with 2 points.
Papua New Guinea and Namibia, who failed to win any matches, finished fourth and fifth.
According to tournament rules, the top three teams from the group progress to Super Six stage.
SH
