In a gripping passage of play that briefly turned the game on its head, Bangladesh spinner Fahima Khatun produced a sensational spell to derail England’s chase during their ICC Women’s World Cup 2025 encounter.
England, cruising at one stage, suddenly found themselves in deep trouble as Fahima struck twice in the 19th over, conceding just a single run and removing two key batters in quick succession.
Her first breakthrough came with the prized scalp of Nat Sciver-Brunt, who had looked set on 32 before miscuing a shot over mid-wicket. Substitute fielder Fargana Hoque showcased sharp reflexes to complete a fine catch, giving Bangladesh a crucial opening.
Just two balls later, Fahima trapped Sophia Dunkley for a duck. Dunkley opted for a review, but the decision stayed with the umpire’s call—the ball clipping the leg stump as England slipped to 69/4.
The drama didn’t stop there. In the 23rd over, Fahima struck again, dismissing Emma Lamb for 1. Lamb’s mistimed stroke carried towards mid-on, where Nahida Akter completed a tumbling low catch. After several replays, the third umpire confirmed that Nahida’s fingers were securely beneath the ball—sealing another crucial wicket for Bangladesh.
From a position of stability, England found themselves reeling at 83/5, with Fahima’s crafty leg-spin changing the complexion of the contest. Her figures, 3 wickets for just 16 runs from 10 overs at an economy of 1.6, reflected precision, patience, and complete control. The wickets also took Fahima Khatun’s ODI tally to 36, underlining her growing stature in Bangladesh’s bowling lineup.
However, despite her heroics, England managed to steady the ship through former skipper’s Heather Knight’s composed 79-run knock, guiding her side to a four-wicket victory. Knight anchored the chase with maturity, soaking up pressure and ensuring England crossed the line with resilience and calm.
Fahima’s spell might not have won Bangladesh the match, but it certainly won her the spotlight, an exhibition of skill, temperament, and the quiet threat of leg-spin mastery.
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