Lahore, April 10 – Bangladesh Women delivered a clinical performance in the ICC Women’s World Cup Qualifier, thrashing Thailand Women by a massive margin of 178 runs at the Lahore City Cricket Association Ground. This emphatic win marks Bangladesh’s continued dominance in the tournament, powered by a sensational century from captain Nigar Sultana and twin five-wicket hauls by Jannatul Ferdus and Fahima Khatun.
Opting to bowl first after winning the toss, Thailand hoped to exploit early morning conditions, but their plans were thwarted by Bangladesh’s disciplined and aggressive batting. The top order laid a solid foundation and never allowed the Thai bowlers to settle.
Nigar’s Ton Sets the Tone
Bangladesh’s innings was anchored by skipper Nigar Sultana, who played a captain’s knock of 101 runs off 80 balls, featuring an array of classy strokes and calculated aggression. Her partnership with opener Sharmin Akhter, who remained unbeaten on 94 off 126 balls, proved pivotal as the duo stitched a 154-run stand for the second wicket.
Veteran batter Fargana Hoque also contributed significantly, scoring a steady 53 off 82 deliveries, helping Bangladesh post a daunting total of 271/3 in 50 overs.
Thailand’s bowling attack, which showed promise in earlier games, looked toothless against the experienced Bangladeshi top order. Phannita Maya (1/28), Thipatcha Putthawong (1/41), and Onnicha Kamchomphu (1/58) were the only wicket-takers, but they struggled to contain the run flow.
Thailand’s Batting Collapses Under Pressure
In reply, Thailand Women faltered under pressure and never looked comfortable during the chase. Their innings folded for a mere 93 runs in 28.5 overs, as they failed to build partnerships or counter Bangladesh’s spin attack.
Only three Thai batters reached double figures – Chanida Sutthiruang (22), Nattaya Boochatham (17), and Naruemol Chaiwai (15) – highlighting the team’s batting woes.
Bangladesh’s spin duo of Jannatul Ferdus and Fahima Khatun wreaked havoc, claiming five wickets each in a memorable bowling display. Ferdus returned with 5/7 in 5 overs, delivering a dream spell, while Khatun cleaned up the tail with 5/21 in 8.5 overs, ensuring a quick wrap-up.
Bangladesh Eyes World Cup Berth
With this victory, Bangladesh Women strengthened their position in the qualifiers, moving closer to securing a berth in the 2025 ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup. Their well-rounded performance – from top-order brilliance to bowling mastery – makes them one of the top contenders in the tournament.
Thailand, on the other hand, will need to reassess their strategies going forward if they wish to stay alive in the qualification race.
Key Stats at a Glance:
- Bangladesh Women: 271/3 (50 overs)
- Nigar Sultana – 101 (80)
- Sharmin Akhter – 94* (126)
- Fargana Hoque – 53 (82)
- Thailand Women: 93 all out (28.5 overs)
- Chanida Sutthiruang – 22 (26)
- Jannatul Ferdus – 5/7 (5)
- Fahima Khatun – 5/21 (8.5)
- Result: Bangladesh Women won by 178 runs
- Venue: Lahore City Cricket Association Ground
- Toss: Thailand Women won the toss and elected to bowl
