The Women’s World Cup 2025 has been a tough start for New Zealand, who are already on the back foot after two defeats to formidable opponents, Australia and South Africa. Despite Captain Sophie Devine’s consistent and brilliant contributions, accounting for 42% of the team’s runs, the White Ferns have yet to register a win.
A significant six-month gap since their last One Day International (ODI) appears to have left them with noticeable rustiness in both batting and bowling. Their struggles were further highlighted by losses in warm-up games against India and India A. Beyond Devine, the batting lineup has failed to find its rhythm, and the bowling attack lacks the desired sharpness. Compounding these issues were fielding lapses, particularly seven misfields against South Africa, contributing to an overall sense of underperformance.
Bangladesh’s Rising Confidence and Spin Threat
In stark contrast, Bangladesh enters this crucial match brimming with confidence. Having already pulled off a stunning upset against Pakistan and pushing England to a tight contest, they’ve proven their capability to challenge top teams. While their batting is still looking for consistent form, their bowlers have been exceptionally reliable.
Pace bowler Marufa Akter has been instrumental in securing early breakthroughs with the new ball. The spin trio of Fahima Khatun, Rabeya Khan, and Nahida Akter has effectively controlled the middle overs. Fahima Khatun, in particular, was nearly unplayable against England, bagging 3 for 16 and dismissing key batters. Her slow, looping leg-spin could prove decisive against New Zealand’s predominantly right-handed batting order.
The conditions at Barsapara Cricket Stadium in Guwahati are expected to heavily favour spin, with 75% of wickets in the tournament so far falling to spinners. This environment is precisely what Bangladesh, having already played here, will look to exploit. Historically, Bangladesh has never beaten New Zealand in an ODI, but this match presents a golden opportunity to rewrite that history on a familiar, spin-friendly track.
New Zealand’s Road to Redemption
For New Zealand, key players like opening batter Suzie Bates desperately need to find form, having been dismissed for ducks in her last two innings. All-rounder Amelia Kerr has emphasized the critical need for discipline against spin and swift adaptation to the pitch conditions. The match also carries an emotional weight as fast bowler Lea Tahuhu celebrates her 100th ODI appearance.
Probable Teams and Tactical Outlook:
- New Zealand Women (Playing XI): Suzie Bates, Georgia Plimmer, Amelia Kerr, Sophie Devine (C), Brooke Halliday, Maddy Green, Izzy Gaze (WK), Jess Kerr, Rosemary Mair, Lea Tahuhu, Eden Carson.
- Bangladesh Women (Playing XI): Rubya Haider, Sharmin Akhter, Nigar Sultana Joty (C/WK), Sobhana Mostary, Sumaiya Akter, Shorna Akter, Fahima Khatun, Nahida Akter, Rabeya Khan, Marufa Akter, Nishita Akter Nishi.
The toss saw New Zealand Women electing to bat first on a used wicket, with captain Sophie Devine confident in her team’s ability to set a strong total. Bangladesh captain Nigar Sultana Joty expressed satisfaction in bowling first, banking on her in-form bowlers and the favorable pitch. The inclusion of Rosemary Mair for New Zealand (if fit) and two changes for Bangladesh (Sumaiya Akter and Nishita Akter Nishi) indicates tactical adjustments from both sides.
With spin set to dominate and the possibility of rain adding another layer of unpredictability, this encounter is poised to be a high-stakes tactical battle. New Zealand is under immense pressure to regain momentum, while Bangladesh aims to capitalize on their growing confidence and favorable home conditions for a historic victory. Cricket fans can anticipate a contest where patience, shot selection, and tactical ingenuity will ultimately determine the outcome.