Bangladesh's Women's T20 World Cup campaign concluded with a narrow defeat to South Africa, who secured a four-wicket win with just four balls remaining in a tense Group-stage match at Lord's today. Despite a spirited late fight, the Tigresses fell short as South Africa reached 118-6 in 19.2 overs, chasing Bangladesh's modest total of 117-5.
Early Setbacks for Bangladesh
Bangladesh's innings got off to a disastrous start when opener Juiairiya Ferdous was bowled by a superb yorker from Marizanne Kapp off the very first ball. Fellow opener Taj Nehar also struggled, managing just one run. However, Sobhana Mostary and Sharmin Akhter Supta steadied the innings with a cautious partnership before accelerating in the middle overs. Mostary top-scored with 42 off 48 balls, while Sharmin made 22 from 29.
Captain's Late Impetus
Captain Nigar Sultana Joty provided the late impetus with an unbeaten 32 off just 20 balls, steering Bangladesh to a competitive total of 117-5 after the early setbacks.
Inspirational Bowling Effort
Bangladesh's bowlers put up a strong fight, taking the match to the final over. Marufa dismissed Laura Wolvaardt with the first ball of the innings, and the bowlers maintained pressure throughout. Nahida Akter was the most successful bowler with 2-24, while Marufa Akhtar, Ritu Moni, and Sanjida Akter Meghla claimed one wicket each.
South Africa's Steady Chase
South Africa's chase was anchored by a steady partnership between Tazmin Brits and Annerie Dercksen. Brits made 20 off 24 balls, while Dercksen scored 45. In the closing stages, Nadine de Klerk contributed 15 from 14 balls before Chole Tryon guided South Africa home with 8 off 5 deliveries, striking a boundary off the opening delivery of the final over to seal the match.
Campaign Summary
With the victory, South Africa reached second spot in Group 1 and raised hopes of reaching the semifinal, though India can still disrupt their plans by defeating group leader Australia. Bangladesh, however, ended their campaign with two wins against Netherlands and Pakistan, marking the first time they have won two matches in the showpiece event.
