Bangladesh staged a remarkable recovery from a disastrous start to defeat Pakistan by 23 runs in the Women's T20 World Cup, keeping their semi-final hopes alive while condemning Pakistan to a third straight loss.
Bangladesh's Innings: From 13/3 to 123/6
After winning the toss and electing to bat, Bangladesh's top order crumbled against Pakistan's disciplined bowling attack, slumping to 13 for 3. Captain Nigar Sultana then led the recovery with a composed knock in the middle overs, but scoring remained difficult against the spin trio of Nashra Sandhu, Sadia Iqbal, and skipper Fatima Sana.
Just when Bangladesh seemed destined for a below-par total, all-rounder Shorna Akter launched a game-changing assault. She smashed 39 runs off just 22 balls, powering Bangladesh to 43 runs in the final four overs and lifting them to 123 for 6.
Pakistan's Chase Unravels
Pakistan's openers Muneeba Ali and Gull Feroza gave their side a confident start, adding 49 runs for the first wicket. However, Bangladesh wrested control after both openers departed. Left-arm spinner Sanjida Akter Meghla struck twice in the 12th over, leaving Pakistan reeling at 70 for 4.
From there, the chase unraveled. Pakistan managed just 30 runs in the last eight overs, struggling against Bangladesh's spin trio of Meghla, Rabeya Khan, and Nahida Akter. They finished on 100 for 8, falling well short of the target.
Key Performances and Reactions
Bangladesh captain Nigar Sultana credited Shorna's late assault for changing the course of the match. “The way she played, actually, she changed the whole scenario,” Nigar said of the Player of the Match.
Pakistan skipper Fatima Sana admitted her side had no excuses for the defeat and called on senior players to take greater responsibility.
Shorna, meanwhile, said she was happy to bat wherever the team required and focused on fulfilling her role when she arrived at the crease.
Impact on the Tournament
The win keeps Bangladesh's campaign alive in the Women's T20 World Cup, while Pakistan faces elimination after three consecutive defeats. Bangladesh's spinners, who took eight wickets collectively, proved decisive on a slow pitch.
