In a super six encounter at the 28th match of the Women’s T20 World Cup Global Qualifier, Bangladesh Women outplayed Netherlands Women by seven wickets in a game that showcased patience, resilience, and smart cricket. After winning the toss, Netherlands chose to bat first, hoping to set a challenging target, but their innings never really took off. They struggled to build partnerships and keep the scoreboard ticking, eventually finishing with a modest 102 for 6 in their 20 overs.
Robine Rijke was the standout for the Dutch side, scoring 39 off 45 balls with some elegant strokes, while Sanya Khurana played a confident knock of 43* from 37 deliveries, including six boundaries. Other batters managed only brief starts, unable to convert them into meaningful contributions, underlining Bangladesh’s disciplined bowling.
Bangladesh’s bowlers were clinical throughout. Nahida Akter led the attack with figures of 3 for 10, applying constant pressure on the Netherland batters. Marufa Akter, Shorna Akter, and Rabeya Khan each chipped in with a wicket, ensuring the Netherlands never gained momentum. The bowlers kept everything tight, forcing errors and picking up timely breakthroughs.
Chasing 103, Bangladesh started cautiously after losing Dilara Akter early for four runs. But skipper Nigar Sultana steadied the ship with a brilliant 50* off 44 balls, timing her shots well and keeping her team ahead of the required run rate. Sharmin Akhter chipped in with 13 runs, while in the middle order Sobhana Mostary scored 33* runs of 23 including 5 fours and the only six from her team, provided just enough firepower to finish the job comfortably.
Bangladesh crossed the line at 105 for 3 in just 16.4 overs, with 20 balls to spare, making the chase look far easier than it actually was. Although the Dutch bowlers, including Iris Zwilling, Heather Siegers, and Hannah Landheer, managed to pick up a wicket each, they couldn’t sustain pressure for long. Bangladesh’s batters rotated strike well and took advantage whenever a loose delivery came along, showing maturity and composure under pressure.
The win was a perfect blend of smart bowling and confident batting from Bangladesh. It highlighted their ability to handle tricky situations and stick to their game plan, while the Netherlands will need to reflect on this match and their inability to capitalize on starts.
In the end, it was a game where teamwork, patience, and smart decision making made all the difference, with Bangladesh Women walking off the field with a well-earned victory and plenty of confidence.
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