Bangladesh vs Pakistan Women’s World Cup: Marufa Akter’s fiery spell seals stunning eight-wicket win

From the very first ball, Marufa Akter looked unstoppable. The conditions at the R Premadasa Stadium suited swing bowling perfectly, and she exploited them to perfection. Pakistan’s innings fell apart in the opening over itself—Akter first dismissed Omaima Sohail for a duck with a dream delivery, and then trapped Sidra Amin for nought off the very next ball. Her fiery opening spell set the tone as Pakistan never recovered and were bowled out for 129 in just 38.3 overs.

Bangladesh’s chase was clinical. Rubya ‘Jhelik’ Haider stole the spotlight with an unbeaten 54 on ODI debut, the highest by a Bangladeshi on debut. Alongside captain Nigar Sultana (23), Jhelik added a crucial 62-run stand that kept Bangladesh firmly in control. Even after Sultana’s dismissal, Sobhana Mostary’s unbeaten 24, all from boundaries, ensured the target was hunted down with authority.

Also Read: Rubya Haider, Shorna Akter Guide Bangladesh to Historic Win Over Pakistan

Earlier, Pakistan briefly steadied the ship with a 42-run stand between Muneeba Ali (17) and Rameen Shamim (23), but once that partnership broke, wickets tumbled at regular intervals. Nahida Akter (2/19) and Shorna Akter (3/5) were equally impressive, tightening the noose as Pakistan collapsed under pressure.

This victory marked Bangladesh’s second-ever Women’s World Cup win—ironically, both against Pakistan. It not only boosted their confidence but also improved their net run rate. Bangladesh now face England on October 7 in Guwahati, while Pakistan will look to regroup quickly ahead of their high-stakes clash against India on October 5.