Bangladesh opener Sharmin Akhter reached a major career milestone by making her 100th international appearance during the second ODI against Australia Women at Allan Border Field in Brisbane on October 11.
The landmark came in Bangladesh’s historic maiden bilateral women’s ODI series in Australia. However, it proved to be a disappointing occasion personally for the 30-year-old, who was dismissed for a duck as Australia secured a comprehensive nine-wicket victory to clinch the three-match series 2-0.
Milestone Match Ends in Defeat
After winning the toss, Australia elected to field first. Bangladesh recovered from a disastrous start to post 220/6, thanks to Sobhana Mostary’s maiden ODI century of 118 and an unbeaten 74 from captain Nigar Sultana Joty.
Australia, however, chased down the target comfortably to record their second successive victory of the series and seal an unassailable lead with one match remaining.
For Sharmin, the milestone match ended after just 11 deliveries as she departed without scoring.
Nearly 15 Years of International Cricket
Sharmin made her international debut in an ODI against Ireland on 26 November 2011.
Since then, she has established herself as one of Bangladesh Women’s most experienced batters, regularly occupying a top-order role and providing stability during rebuilding phases.
Her 100 international appearances reflect more than a decade of consistent selection and service for Bangladesh.
Sharmin’s ODI Career
Across 58 ODIs, Sharmin has scored 1,476 runs at an average of 26.83 with a strike rate of 58.36.
Her record includes 11 half-centuries, with many of her contributions coming in difficult batting conditions where partnerships and patience have been crucial.
One of the finest innings of her career came against Ireland in Mirpur in November 2024, when she produced a superb 96 from 89 deliveries. The innings helped Bangladesh reach 252/4 before securing a convincing 154-run victory, earning Sharmin the Player of the Match award.
Experience in the Shorter Format
Sharmin made her T20I debut against Ireland in Dublin on 28 August 2012.
Since then, she has represented Bangladesh in 42 T20 Internationals, scoring 732 runs in 40 innings at an average of 20.33 and a strike rate of 85.41.
Her T20I career includes two half-centuries, while her experience has remained an important asset for Bangladesh’s batting unit in international competitions.
Looking Ahead
Although her milestone appearance ended in disappointment, Sharmin remains one of Bangladesh Women’s most experienced players as the team continues its development on the international stage.
The third and final ODI of the series will also be played at Allan Border Field on October 14, giving Bangladesh an opportunity to finish the tour on a positive note while offering Sharmin the chance to bounce back after an unforgettable personal milestone.
