Bangladesh women’s cricket team delivered a commanding performance at the Sher-e-Bangla National Stadium in Mirpur on Wednesday (27 November), securing a historic 154-run win against Ireland in the first ODI of the series.
This triumph marks the largest margin of victory in the team’s ODI history, surpassing their previous record of a 119-run win against South Africa in East London in 2023.
Winning the toss, Bangladesh opted to bat first and posted an imposing total of 252 runs for 4 wickets in 50 overs.
Ireland, in reply, were bowled out for a mere 98 runs in 28.5 overs, overwhelmed by a disciplined and aggressive bowling attack led by the Tigresses.
Marufa Akter's blistering pace attack rattled the visitors early, reducing Ireland to 10 for 2. While Sarah Forbes (25) and Orla Prendergast (19) offered brief resistance, the rest of the Irish batting line-up crumbled. Sultana Khatun emerged as the standout bowler, claiming 3 wickets for 23 runs, while Marufa Akter and Nahida Akter took 2 wickets each.
Earlier in the day, Bangladesh set a new benchmark for their highest team score in ODI history. Sharmin Sultana played a stellar knock, amassing 96 runs off 88 balls. Partnering with Fargana Hoque, who scored a steady 61 off 110 balls, the pair stitched together a 104-run second-wicket partnership.
After Murshida Khatun's departure for 38 off 61 balls, Sharmin continued to anchor the innings, ably supported by captain Nigar Sultana, who added a brisk 28 off 28 balls. Swarna Akter’s nine-ball cameo of 13 runs included a six—the first in 13 matches for Bangladesh—bringing the innings to a strong finish at 252 for 4.
This score surpassed the team’s previous highest ODI total of 250, achieved last year against South Africa on their home soil. The win highlights the growing prowess of Bangladesh’s women’s cricket team as they continue to rewrite the record books.
Ireland’s pursuit of the 253-run target faltered from the outset, with the Tigresses maintaining relentless pressure throughout the innings. As Bangladesh celebrates this remarkable feat, fans eagerly anticipate more stellar performances in the upcoming matches.
