New Zealand Overpowers Bangladesh in Women’s World Cup with 100-Run Triumph

GUWAHATI: A combination of half-centuries by skipper Sophie Devine and Brooke Halliday, coupled with effective bowling, propelled New Zealand to a significant 100-run victory against Bangladesh in the ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup 2025, held at the Barsapara Cricket Stadium on Friday.

After choosing to bat, the White Ferns posted a total of 227/9 in their allotted 50 overs, highlighted by a crucial fourth-wicket partnership between Devine and Halliday.

New Zealand faced an unsteady beginning, with opener Suzie Bates being run out and Rabeya Khan’s dual strikes leaving them at 38/3 in 11 overs.

Following this initial setback, Halliday joined Devine, and together they steered a recovery.

The pair contributed 112 runs for the fourth wicket before Halliday was dismissed by Fahima Khatun in the 39th over. Halliday scored 69 runs off 104 balls, including five boundaries and a six.

Devine then participated in a brief 29-run partnership with Maddy Green (25) before being bowled by Nishita Akter Nishi in the 44th over. She scored 63 runs from 85 deliveries, featuring two sixes and two fours.

Rabeya Khan stood out for Bangladesh, claiming three wickets for 30 runs in 10 overs, while Fahima Khatun, Nishita Akter Nishi, Nahida Akter and Marufa Akter each took one wicket.

In their chase, Bangladesh’s batting lineup collapsed to just 127 in 39.5 overs, despite Fahima’s effort.

Fahima top-scored with 34 runs off 80 balls, while Nahida (17) and Rabeya (25) were the only other batters to reach double figures against New Zealand’s strong bowling attack.

Lea Tahuhu and Jes Kerr spearheaded New Zealand’s bowling attack with three wickets each, followed by Rosemary Mair with two, and Amelia Kerr and Eden Carson with one each.

This victory elevated New Zealand to fifth place in the ICC Women’s World Cup 2025 standings, surpassing Bangladesh due to a superior net run rate. Both teams have two points after three matches.