Alleyne Earns Player of the Match for Stellar Performance

LAHORE: Aaliyah Alleyne’s impressive four-wicket haul and Chinelle Henry’s pivotal unbeaten half-century propelled the West Indies to a tense three-wicket triumph over Bangladesh. This crucial ICC Women’s World Cup Qualifier occurred at the Lahore City Cricket Association (LCCA) Ground on Thursday.

Bangladesh, after electing to bat, posted a competitive 227/9 in their 50 overs, highlighted by Sharmin Akhter’s stabilizing half-century.

The innings began shakily for the Asian side, with Sobhana Mostary (six) departing in the fifth over, the score at just 16.

Akhter then partnered with Fargana Hoque, orchestrating a remarkable recovery. Together, they forged a 118-run stand for the second wicket until Alleyne removed both batters in the 28th over.

Akhter’s 67 off 79 balls, featuring 10 boundaries, was the highest score for Bangladesh, while Hoque contributed 42 from 78 balls, including three boundaries.

These dismissals triggered a significant collapse, with Bangladesh losing five additional wickets rapidly.

At 183/8 in the 44th over, Nahida Akter and Rabeya Khan combined for a vital 31-run partnership for the ninth wicket, which ended with Nahida’s dismissal on the second ball of the final over.

Nahida Akter hit four boundaries in her 25 off 39 balls, and Rabeya Khan remained unbeaten with 23 from 20 balls, hitting five boundaries.

Aaliyah Alleyne was the most effective bowler for West Indies, claiming four wickets for 39 runs in nine overs. Afy Fletcher and Hayley Matthews took two wickets each, while Henry secured one.

In pursuit of a challenging 228, the West Indies reached their target, winning with three wickets in hand and 24 balls remaining.

Henry led the charge with an undefeated 51 off 48 balls, including five fours and two sixes.

Entering the game at number six, Henry guided the West Indies’ chase, sustaining their chances of qualifying for the ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup in India.

Other significant contributions came from Stafanie Taylor (36), captain Matthews (33), opener Joseph (31), and wicketkeeper Shemaine Campbelle (24).

For Bangladesh, Marufa Akter was the leading bowler with two wickets. Ritu Moni, Fahima Khatun, Rabeya, Nahida, and Jannatul Ferdus each claimed one wicket.

Despite this three-wicket victory, the West Indies are still fourth in the ICC Women’s World Cup Qualifier standings with four points, while Bangladesh leads with six points.