Can Bangladesh Overcome South Africa with Fifties from Sharmin and Shorma?
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Synopsis
In a thrilling encounter, Bangladesh showcased their batting prowess with remarkable innings by Sharmin and Shorma, setting a challenging target for South Africa. Can they defend their total and secure a vital win in the Women's ODI World Cup? Dive into the match highlights and key performances that shaped this gripping contest.
Key Takeaways
- Bangladesh's total: 232/6 in 50 overs.
- Key contributions: Sharmin Akhter (50), Shorma Akter (51 not out), Ritu Moni (19 not out).
- Slow start: Bangladesh struggled early but finished strongly.
- South African bowling: Tight and effective, making scoring difficult.
- Partnerships: Crucial partnerships helped build the total.
Visakhapatnam, Oct 13 (NationPress) - Remarkable half-centuries from Sharmin Akhter and Shorma Akter, along with an electrifying cameo from Ritu Moni, propelled Bangladesh to a solid total of 232/6 in their 50 overs against South Africa during the Women's ODI World Cup at the Dr. Y.S. Rajasekhara Reddy ACA-VDCA Cricket Stadium in Visakhapatnam on Monday.
Sharmin Akhter contributed a valuable 50 runs off 77 balls (including 6 fours) to establish a firm base, while Shorma Akter added an unbeaten 51 off just 35 balls (featuring 3 fours and 3 sixes) for a late surge. Ritu Moni chipped in with a quickfire 19 off eight balls, enabling Bangladesh to finish strongly after a slow start.
The innings began cautiously for Bangladesh, as they chose to bat first and reached only 100/2 in 30 overs, with Sharmin Akhter and skipper Nigar Sultana Joty anchoring the innings during the middle overs.
Fargana Hoque (30) and Rubya Haider (23) struggled to accelerate, resulting in a mere 28 runs without loss in the first 10 overs of the mandatory Power-play, with only three boundaries struck.
The South African bowlers maintained tight control, making scoring difficult by utilizing the overcast conditions effectively. They restricted Bangladesh's run flow, employing clever variations in pace.
Fargana Hoque and Rubya Haider managed a 53-run partnership for the opening wicket in 16 overs, but both fell within a span of 20 runs. Hoque was dismissed LBW by left-arm spinner Nonkululeko Mlaba, while Haider was caught by Nadine de Klerk off Chloe Tryon.
Sharmin Akhter (50) and Nigar Sultana Joty then built a resilient 77-run partnership for the third wicket over approximately 15 overs, helping Bangladesh reach 150 in the 40th over.
Sharmin reached her fifty off 74 balls but was run out following a mix-up with her skipper. Joty scored 32 off 42 balls before being caught by her counterpart, Laura Wolvaardt, off Mlaba just as she was poised to accelerate the innings.
With Bangladesh at 164/4, Shorna Akter injected some urgency into the innings, striking the first six of the match and following it up with aggressive boundaries, including a thick-edged four over the keeper's head. A productive 46th over saw Bangladesh collect 18 runs, their most fruitful of the innings.
Despite a double setback at 195 with the quick dismissals of Sobhana Mostary (9) and Rabeya Khan (0), a flurry of boundaries from Ritu Moni and another six from Shorma propelled Bangladesh to a commendable total.
Brief scores:
Bangladesh 232/6 in 50 overs (Sharmin Akhter 50, Shorma Akter 51 not out, Nigar Sultana Joty 32, Ritu Moni 19 not out; Nonkululeko Mlaba 2-42) against South Africa.
Point of View
It's evident that Bangladesh's performance, particularly from Sharmin and Shorma, highlights their growing prowess in women's cricket. Their ability to adapt under pressure and post a competitive total reflects their determination and potential on the global stage. It’s a pivotal moment for Bangladesh cricket, and we stand firmly behind our team in this endeavor.
NationPress
13/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What was Bangladesh's total in the match?
Bangladesh scored a total of 232 runs for the loss of 6 wickets in their 50 overs.
Who were the standout players for Bangladesh?
Sharmin Akhter and Shorma Akter were the standout players, both scoring half-centuries, with Ritu Moni providing a quick finish.
Where was the match played?
The match was played at the Dr. Y.S. Rajasekhara Reddy ACA-VDCA Cricket Stadium in Visakhapatnam.
How did the South African bowlers perform?
The South African bowlers maintained tight lines and utilized the overcast conditions effectively, restricting Bangladesh's scoring opportunities.
What impact did the opening partnership have?
The opening partnership of Fargana Hoque and Rubya Haider laid a steady foundation, although both fell without significantly accelerating the score.
