A devastating batting collapse saw Bangladesh lose 9 wickets for just 50 runs, with the last 5 batters collectively scoring just 1 run. This dismal performance led to an 8-wicket defeat against the West Indies, crushing Bangladesh’s hopes of direct qualification for the ICC Women’s World Cup.
The collapse began after the team was well-positioned at 68/1, thanks to a solid partnership between Fargana Hoque and Sharmin Akhter. However, the middle and lower order crumbled spectacularly, leaving the team all out for just 118 runs at Warner Park, St. Kitts.
Chasing an easy target, the West Indies comfortably secured victory in just 27.3 overs, winning the three-match series 2-1.
Missed Opportunity for Direct Qualification
A victory in this match would have secured Bangladesh a spot in the top six of the ICC Women’s Championship standings and a direct World Cup berth. However, with this defeat, they finished seventh. New Zealand, with the same 21 points but one extra win, claimed the final direct qualification spot.
Match Summary
Opting to bat first, Bangladesh lost Murshida Khatun early for just 1 run. The experienced pair of Fargana (22 off 65) and Sharmin (37 off 58) provided some stability, but their cautious approach slowed the scoring rate significantly. Once Sharmin was dismissed trying to accelerate, the batting order fell apart.
Captain Nigar Sultana (11 off 29) failed to replicate her heroics from the previous match, and the lower order offered no resistance. Notable failures included Fahima Khatun (7), Swarna Akter (0), and Rabeya Khan (0).
The West Indies’ spin attack, led by Karishma Ramharack (4/12) and Zaida James (2/15), exploited the conditions brilliantly.
West Indies Cruise to Victory
With just 118 to defend, Bangladesh’s bowlers had little margin for error. Although Nahida Akter and Marufa Akter managed to pick up a wicket each, the hosts’ batters—Kiana Joseph (39), Hayley Matthews (22), and Dendra Dottin (33*)—comfortably chased down the target.
Road Ahead
Both Bangladesh and the West Indies will now have to compete in the World Cup qualifiers in August-September 2025 in India. The six-team qualifier will determine the final two spots for the World Cup.
Scores Summary:
Bangladesh: 118 all out in 43.5 overs (Sharmin 37, Ramharack 4/12).
West Indies: 122/2 in 27.3 overs (Joseph 39, Dottin 33*).
Result: West Indies won by 8 wickets.
Series: West Indies won 2-1.
Player of the Match: Karishma Ramharack.
Player of the Series: Karishma Ramharack.
