Bangladesh’s Under-19 women’s team kicked off their T20 World Cup campaign with a win against Nepal, clinching a five-wicket victory with 40 balls to spare.
In Bangi, Malaysia, wiining the toss the Tigress opted to bowled first.
They dismantled Nepal for a mere 52 runs. Nepal lost five wickets for just 30 runs early on, including their captain, Puja Mahotar, who was run out.
Puja was instrumental in bringing Nepal to the World Cup with a 130-run knock in the qualifiers, but could not save her team this time.
Jannatul Mawa led Bangladesh’s bowling with two wickets, while Nishita Akter, Fahmida Chhoya, and Mosammat Anisa each bagged one wicket.
In reply, Bangladesh lost three wickets in just 11 runs. But they stabilized through contributions from Sadia Islam (16) and captain Sumaiya Akter (12).
Although neither batter remained unbeaten, Bangladesh comfortably reached their target.
This victory continues a streak of strong performances from the Bangladeshi women’s team, who reached the Asia Cup final in December and defeated Sri Lanka and England in World Cup warm-up matches.
Bd-pratidin English/Lutful Hoque
