Mia Durdevac's All-Round Effort Helps Croatia Women Crush Bulgaria by 90 Runs

Building on their momentum from the opening fixture in the Serbia Women’s T20I Tri-Series, Croatia Women put on a dominant, all-round display in Match 2 to defeat Bulgaria Women by 90 runs at Belgrade. Winning the toss and opting to bat first, Croatia constructed a huge target of 153/5 in 20 overs. Bulgaria’s batting unit struggled to build partnerships against a disciplined Croatian attack, getting restricted to a quiet 63/8 by the end of their 20-over allotment.

Croatia’s dominant batting display was anchored by important runs from top-order batter Helen Leko, followed by middle-order contributions. Leko set the tone early in the innings, taking control during the powerplay and punishing anything short or wide, scoring 28 (31). Pavia Senjug (27), Mia Durdevac (20*) and Morana Modric (25) helped the team to a good total.

Bulgaria’s bowling unit struggled with consistency throughout the first innings, conceding crucial extras and failing to sustain defensive pressure. Although they managed to break through and claim five wickets across the 20 overs, the continuous boundary flow ensured Croatia kept moving forward at over 7.5 runs per over. By the time Croatia reached 153/5 at the end of the innings, the scoreboard pressure on Bulgaria was immense.

Chasing a steep target of 154 at a required rate of nearly 7.7 runs per over, Bulgaria’s response got off to a rocky start. Croatia’s opening bowlers kept things extremely tight, forcing early mistakes from Bulgaria’s top order. Wickets fell at regular intervals, preventing Bulgaria from building any meaningful momentum or establishing a firm platform during the powerplay.

Bulgaria struggled to accelerate through the middle and death overs, finishing their 20 overs at 63/8 to concede a heavy 90-run victory. Croatia’s bowlers maintained excellent control throughout the run-chase, giving away virtually no free hits or easy singles. Mia Durdevac was deservedly named Player of the Match for her (20*) and 3/14 (4). Dora Pavelic (3/16) and Lidija Krvaric (2/10) also starred with the ball.