How Did Sobhana's Unbeaten 66 Propel Bangladesh to 198 Against Australia?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Sobhana Mostary showcased excellent batting skills with an unbeaten 66.
- Bangladesh managed to score 198 runs against a strong Australian bowling attack.
- Australia's dropped catches could have changed the match's dynamics.
- Bangladesh demonstrated resilience despite losing wickets regularly.
- This match highlighted the growing potential of women's cricket in Bangladesh.
Visakhapatnam, Oct 16 (NationPress) Sobhana Mostary played an exceptional innings, remaining unbeaten at 66 runs and helping Bangladesh set a competitive total of 198/9 in 50 overs against Australia during the Women’s World Cup encounter at the Dr. Y.S. Rajasekhara Reddy ACA-VDCA Cricket Stadium on Thursday.
Sobhana's performance was a testament to her determination and skill, as she single-handedly prevented Bangladesh from a total collapse against the fierce bowling attack of the defending champions. Despite Australia dropping six catches throughout the match, which could have drastically changed the game's outcome, Bangladesh managed to hold their ground.
Choosing to bat first, Bangladesh began with a cautious approach, with openers Fargana Hoque and Rubya Haider establishing a 32-run partnership. Just as they seemed to be settling in, Megan Schutt disrupted their plans, dismissing Fargana for just 8 runs. At the end of the powerplay, Bangladesh was at 37/1.
Following this, Sharmin Akhter and Rubina formed another crucial partnership, adding 41 runs in 53 balls before Australia struck again in the 18th over, with Ashleigh Gardner sending Rubina back for a solid 44, which included eight boundaries.
In the 22nd over, Gardner claimed another wicket, removing Sharmin and leaving Bangladesh at 84/3. Captain Niger Sultana and Sobhana attempted to stabilize the innings, but shortly after, Sultana was dismissed by spinner Alana King. Sobhana continued to fight, forming a brief partnership with Shorna Akter, who also fell victim to King in the 35th over.
As wickets fell regularly, Sobhana remained steadfast, hoping to steer her team to a respectable score. Bangladesh faced a collapse towards the end, losing Ritu Moni (2), Fahima Khatun (4), Rabeya Khan (6), and Nishita Akter Nishi (1). The Australian bowlers Georgia Wareham and Annabel Sutherland shared two wickets each among these batters.
In a remarkable feat, Sobhana completed her half-century off 67 balls, marking the first instance of a Bangladesh women's team batter scoring over 50 against Australia in ODIs. Her partnership with Fariha Trisna for 33 runs at the last wicket significantly boosted Bangladesh's total in the closing overs.
Brief Scores: Bangladesh 198/9 in 50 overs (Sobhana Mostary 66 not out, Rubya Haider 44; Alana King 2-18, Georgia Wareham 2-22) against Australia.