Bangladesh Women strengthened their position in Group A of the Women’s T20 World Cup Qualifiers with a commanding 30-run victory over Papua New Guinea Women. After Papua New Guinea won the toss and chose to field, Bangladesh produced a dominant all-round display to outplay their opponents and secure a valuable win.
Batting first, Bangladesh posted a total of 168 for 5 in their allotted 20 overs, scoring at a brisk run rate of 8.40. The innings was built on solid foundations at the top before a powerful finish in the death overs. Opener Dilara Akter provided early momentum with a fluent 35 off 29 balls, striking four boundaries and one six, keeping the scoreboard moving. Although run outs disrupted Bangladesh’s rhythm at times, the batters maintained intent throughout the innings.
Juairiya Ferdous contributed a quick 17 from 11 deliveries, while Sharmin Akhter played a stabilising role in the middle order, scoring 28 off 34 balls. Captain Nigar Sultana was dismissed for 6, but Bangladesh never lost control of the innings. Sobhana Mostary anchored the latter half with a composed unbeaten 34 off 24 balls, rotating the strike effectively and punishing loose deliveries.
The highlight of the Bangladesh innings came from Shorna Akter, who unleashed a breathtaking cameo of 37 runs from just 14 balls. Her explosive knock, which included four towering sixes, dramatically lifted Bangladesh’s total and left Papua New Guinea under immense pressure heading into the chase. Papua New Guinea’s bowling attack struggled to contain the scoring, Mairi Tom, Henao Thomas, and Dika Lohia got one wicket each.
In reply, Papua New Guinea were restricted to 138 for 9 from 20 overs, falling short despite a few spirited individual efforts. Hollan Doriga gave the chase an early spark with 21 off 13 balls, while captain Brenda Tau top scored with a determined 35 from 32 deliveries. Sibona Jimmy added 28, but regular wickets prevented Papua New Guinea from building any sustained partnerships.
Bangladesh’s bowlers delivered a disciplined performance, backed by sharp fielding. Rabeya Khan, Sanjida Akter Meghla, Fahima Khatun, and Ritu Moni each picked up a wicket, maintaining pressure through accurate lines and clever variations. Sobhana Mostary and Shorna Akter also made important breakthroughs, while multiple run outs further dented Papua New Guinea’s chase.
The fielding unit was alert throughout, converting half chances and cutting off boundaries effectively. Ultimately, Bangladesh’s superior batting depth and collective bowling effort proved decisive. The 30-run victory not only consolidated their standing in Group A but also underlined their experience and balance as they continued their campaign in the Women’s T20 World Cup Qualifiers.
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