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Pakistan’s Women’s World Cup campaign hit a stumbling block on Thursday as they suffered a seven-wicket defeat to Bangladesh, just days before their high-voltage clash against India.
Bangladesh’s victory was powered by Rubya Haider Jhelik, who scored an unbeaten 54 on debut, and Shorna Akter, whose devastating spell of 5 for 3 in 3.3 overs dismantled Pakistan’s batting.
This win marked Bangladesh’s second-ever Women’s ODI World Cup victory, their first also coming against Pakistan.
Pakistan’s batting woes were exposed from the very first over. Marufa Akter struck early, removing Omaima Sohail and Sidra Amin cheaply, leaving Pakistan reeling. Despite brief resistance from Muneeba Ali (19) and Rameen Shamim (23), the innings collapsed to 129 all out in 38.3 overs. Captain Fatima Sana top-scored with 22.
Bangladesh’s spinners proved to be Pakistan’s undoing, with Nahida Akter and Marufa also chipping in with two wickets apiece.
Chasing 130, Bangladesh began cautiously, scoring just 23 runs in the powerplay. Pakistan sensed a comeback when Diana Baig bowled a fiery spell, dismissing Fargana Hoque and keeping things tight.
However, Jhelik and skipper Nigar Sultana Joty (23) steadied the chase with a crucial 62-run partnership. Jhelik grew in confidence, attacking Pakistan’s spinners before sealing her fifty with a stylish cut shot.
With Sobhana Mostary (24 not out) finishing strongly, Bangladesh reached the target in 37 overs, sealing a memorable win.
For Pakistan, the defeat highlighted serious batting concerns against spin, an area India’s attack—featuring Deepti Sharma and Sneh Rana—will look to exploit in their upcoming clash.
Bangladesh, meanwhile, face England on October 7, buoyed by their historic performance but aware they must avoid being overly defensive early on against stronger opponents.
