Lahore, April 10, 2025 – Bangladesh Women continued their dominant run in the ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup Qualifier as they posted an imposing total of 271/3 in 50 overs against Thailand Women at the Lahore City Cricket Association Ground on Thursday.
The star of the day was captain Nigar Sultana, who led from the front with a brilliant 101 off 80 balls, showcasing her leadership and form when her team needed it most. She was ably supported by Sharmin Akhter, who narrowly missed out on a century, scoring a fluent 94 off 126 deliveries*.
Earlier in the day, Thailand Women won the toss and elected to bowl first, perhaps hoping to take early advantage of the conditions. But Bangladesh’s top-order proved too strong. Opener Ishma Tanjim fell early for 8, but Fargana Hoque (53 off 82) laid the foundation with a steady partnership with Sharmin Akhter.
Once Fargana departed with the score at 119/2, Nigar Sultana took charge and shifted the momentum. Her knock was laced with elegant boundaries, and her 101-run partnership with Akhter took the game away from Thailand. Nigar eventually fell on the final ball of the innings, caught at long-on while trying to accelerate further.
Despite the mammoth effort with the bat, Thailand’s bowlers struggled to make inroads. Thipatcha Putthawong was the most economical among them, finishing with figures of 1/41 in 10 overs. Onnicha Kamchomphu and Phannita Maya picked up a wicket each but were expensive.
As the innings came to a close, Bangladesh’s run rate stood at a healthy 5.42, giving their bowlers a massive cushion. Thailand Women will now need to chase 272 runs – a total that would require their best-ever ODI performance to overcome.
Bangladesh Women have shown why they’re one of the favorites in this qualifier campaign. With a strong batting display and a capable bowling attack waiting to step in, the momentum is firmly in their favor as they push for a World Cup berth.
The live win probability at the break reflects the task ahead for Thailand – Bangladesh Women 96%, Thailand Women 4%.
