Sharmin Akhter’s brilliant 86 and late contributions from Ritu Moni guide Bangladesh through a dramatic finish despite a late collapse
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!In a landmark moment for women’s cricket, the Bangladesh Women’s Cricket Team registered their first-ever Women’s ODI (WODI) victory against the Sri Lanka Women’s Cricket Team in Rajshahi. The thrilling three-wicket win was powered by a match-defining knock from Sharmin Akhter, who scored a composed 86 off 127 balls, laced with 13 boundaries.
Chasing a target of 207, Bangladesh had a shaky start, losing early wickets including Sharmin Sultana and debutant Juairiya Ferdous within the first two overs. Captain Nigar Sultana also fell cheaply, leaving the hosts struggling at 34 for 3.
The innings was then stabilized by Sharmin Akhter and Sobhana Mostary, who stitched together a crucial 87-run partnership. Mostary played a vital knock of 41 before retiring hurt due to severe cramps, which briefly shifted momentum.
Sharmin continued to anchor the chase and found support in Shorna Akter, adding another important 78-run stand. However, the game took a dramatic turn when Bangladesh lost four wickets for just one run near the finish line. Dewmi Vihanga triggered the collapse by removing Shorna and Ritu Moni in quick succession, while more reckless shots led to further setbacks.
With nerves kicking in, Bangladesh needed calm heads, and they found it in Nahida Akter and Sultana Khatun, who held their composure to guide the team home. Sri Lanka faltered in the final moments, conceding crucial extras that sealed the historic win.
Earlier, Sri Lanka posted a competitive total thanks to half-centuries from Imesha Dulani and Hansima Karunaratne, both scoring 54. Stand-in captain Hasini Perera provided a solid start with a 68-run opening stand. However, Bangladesh bowlers, led by Ritu Moni, pulled things back with timely breakthroughs.
This victory marks a significant milestone for Bangladesh women’s cricket, showcasing their resilience and growing competitiveness on the international stage.
