Bangladesh Women registered a hard-earned victory over Sri Lanka in Rajshahi, successfully chasing 206 in 48.3 overs, though a late collapse nearly turned a comfortable chase into a nervy finish.
The innings was anchored by Sharmin Akhter Supta, who produced a composed 86 to steady the chase after early setbacks and guide her side towards victory before a sudden flurry of wickets created late tension.
Sri Lanka Build, Bangladesh Restrict Late
After opting to bat first, Sri Lanka made a steady start, scoring 44 runs in the powerplay without losing a wicket. Hasini Perera and Imesha Dulani combined for a 50-run opening stand, laying a solid platform.
Dulani went on to score a patient 50 off 70 balls, including six boundaries. She found strong support from Hanisma Karunaratne, who also reached a fluent half-century, as the pair controlled the middle overs and took Sri Lanka past the 150-run mark.
However, Bangladesh’s bowlers tightened their grip towards the end, picking up wickets at regular intervals to restrict Sri Lanka to 205 for nine.
Supta Anchors Bangladesh’s Chase
Bangladesh’s reply got off to a difficult start, slipping to 34 for three inside the powerplay. Under pressure, Sharmin Akhter Supta took charge, rebuilding the innings with composure.
She shared a crucial 50-run partnership with Sobhana Mostary, who contributed 41 before retiring hurt. Supta continued to anchor the innings, reaching her half-century off 64 deliveries through controlled stroke play and effective strike rotation.
She was then joined by Shorna Akter, who added a steady 35, as the duo consolidated the chase and brought Bangladesh within touching distance of victory.
Late Collapse Sparks Tension
At 199 for three in the 45th over, Bangladesh appeared firmly in control. However, Supta’s dismissal triggered a sudden collapse, with four wickets falling for just one run in 10 deliveries, briefly shifting momentum back in Sri Lanka’s favour.
Reflecting on the finish, Shorna Akter said, “It would have been better if me, Supta apu, had finished the game.”
“We always want our middle order to finish the job, but these things are part of the game. The situation could have been different if we had stayed till the end,” she added.
Despite the late drama, Nahida Akter and Sultana Khatun held their nerve to guide Bangladesh home with nine balls to spare.
A Meaningful Victory
Shorna also praised Supta’s knock, describing it as “brilliant” and acknowledging her crucial role in stabilising the chase. She further expressed satisfaction with Rajshahi hosting its first international match successfully.
