Kathryn Bryce once again showcased her leadership skills, leading Scotland to a resounding victory against Thailand in the ongoing ICC Women’s World Cup Qualifier 2025. This match marked Scotland’s second consecutive win in the tournament, as they cemented their status as serious contenders. Meanwhile, on the other side of the pitch, Ireland, captained by Gaby Lewis, was gearing up for a challenging face-off against Bangladesh, helmed by skipper Nigar Sultana Joty, at the historic Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore.
As the Irish team took to the field, they found themselves in a bit of a pickle early on. Sarah Forbes, their opening batter, fell victim in the 4th over, putting pressure on the team right from the get-go. Gaby Lewis, having won the toss and opted to bat first, understood the need to anchor the innings. She was joined by wicket-keeper Amy Hunter, and together, they stabilized the innings with a much-needed 50-run partnership for the second wicket. However, fate would soon intervene: Jannatul Ferdus grabbed a crucial wicket, sending Lewis—who scored 24 runs off 43 balls—back to the pavilion in the 14th over, striking a blow to Ireland’s burgeoning confidence.
The pressure mounted further when Hunter departed shortly after, scoring 33 runs off 38 balls, leaving Ireland reeling at 3 down before the 20th over. Just when the team needed a steadying presence, Laura Delany took charge, joining Orla Prendergast at the crease. The pair formed a formidable partnership, laying the groundwork for a fighting total with a 72-run fourth-wicket stand that not only moved them closer to 150 runs but also steadied their frayed nerves. Eventually, the harmony was shattered when Rabeya Khan made a breakthrough by dismissing Orla Prendergast, who had contributed 41 runs in a composed 64 balls.
Delany, determined to keep the momentum going, formed a 33-run partnership with Leah Paul, inching Ireland toward 200 runs. Yet, just when it appeared that Ireland was ready to take control, Fahima Khatun struck again, removing Delany for a well-played 63 off 75 balls, which included some beautiful strokes. Ireland posted a respectful total of 235 runs in their allotted 50 overs, thanks to a late cameo by Arlene Kelly, who scored an unbeaten 24 off 17 balls. On the bowling side, Rabeya Khan emerged as a star for Bangladesh, finishing with impressive figures of 3 wickets for 39 runs.
As Bangladesh took to bat, the pressure was palpable; they lost their first two wickets in quick succession. The situation demanded calm heads, and skipper Nigar Sultana Joty stepped up, stabilizing the innings alongside Sharmin Akhter. The duo’s partnership of 52 runs for the third wicket was critical. However, Joty’s dismissal in the 26th over at 51 runs off 68 balls left Bangladesh grappling once more.
In the midst of a fluctuating scorecard, Fahima Khatun and Ritu Moni found a rhythm and constructed a vital partnership, adding 45 runs collectively as they targeted a challenging chase. Yet, wickets kept tumbling; Khatun fell just short of a solid innings, making 28 runs off 38 balls, leaving Bangladesh in a precarious position.
The heart of the match came alive when Ritu Moni and Jannatul Ferdus formed yet another critical partnership that calmed the nerves of fans and players alike. The duo added 40 runs to the scoreboard, bridging the gap and pulling Bangladesh closer to the target of 236 runs. Despite a late wicket for Ferdus, Ritu Moni stood her ground, securing her place in cricket history with an impressive performance.
Needing 56 runs for victory, Ritu Moni (67* off 61 balls) and Nahida Akter (18* off 17 balls) executed a steely partnership of 54 runs for the ninth wicket. Moni’s stellar innings, filled with determination and poise, earned her the Player of the Match award. With this knock, she not only led Bangladesh to a thrilling two-wicket victory over Ireland but also marked her first half-century at the international level. The fans were left buzzing with excitement, knowing they had witnessed an exhilarating match that showcased the immense talent and resilience present in women’s cricket today.
Bangladesh’s triumph in this intense match underscores the evolving landscape of women’s cricket. Just as players on the field wrestle with pressure and uncertainty, fans alike understand the thrill of this sport—the highs and lows, the victories that feel like hard-earned battles, and the unity among those who cheer from the stands. Each innings, each wicket, and every partnership shares a story that resonates with our collective experience as witnesses to a beautiful game.
Image Source: Tigercricket.com.bd
