Following a narrow but spirited defeat to England in their previous outing, Bangladesh is determined to bounce back and secure a crucial win against New Zealand in their third match of the ICC Women’s ODI World Cup in Guwahati this Friday.
The Nigar Sultana-led Bengal Tigresses started their campaign strongly with a commanding seven-wicket victory over Pakistan. They then pushed four-time champions England to their limits, with Heather Knight eventually guiding her team to a four-wicket win while chasing 179. Despite the loss, Bangladesh’s bowlers, particularly their spinners, have been the cornerstone of their strong performances so far. However, their batting unit remains a key area of concern.
As they play their second match at the Barsapara Cricket Stadium, Bangladesh will once again rely heavily on their bowlers to excel on a pitch that has consistently favored spinners throughout the three matches held at the venue. To achieve their second win in three games, Bangladesh must overcome a New Zealand side that is yet to register a point in the tournament.
The White Ferns, champions in 2000, have endured back-to-back losses and find themselves in a challenging position. Languishing at seventh place in the eight-team standings, the Kiwis are desperate to turn their fortunes around swiftly if they hope to avoid an early exit from this prestigious event.
Bangladesh’s spin attack, spearheaded by vice-captain and left-arm spinner Nahida Akter, has effectively stifled opposing batters. Nahida, the leading wicket-taker for Bangladesh across all formats, will be crucial to her team’s strategy. She will be well-supported by the talented leg-spin trio of Fahima Khatun, Rabeya Khan, and the promising 18-year-old Shorna Akter.
On the pace front, Marufa Akter is anticipated to maintain her impactful performance with the new ball. Her ability to generate significant pace is expected to challenge New Zealand’s struggling opener, Suzie Bates, who has recorded consecutive ducks in this tournament. New Zealand captain Sophie Devine has led by example, with scores of 112 against Australia and 85 against South Africa, but other batters have struggled to convert their starts into substantial scores.
New Zealand will undoubtedly look to exploit Bangladesh’s relatively unsettled and inexperienced batting lineup to end their losing streak and climb higher in the tournament standings.