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

Women’s ODI World Cup 2025: Rubya Haider, Shorna Akter Guide Bangladesh to Historic Win Over Pakistan

Bangladesh made a dream start to their Women’s ODI World Cup 2025 campaign with a commanding seven-wicket victory over Pakistan in the opening clash on Thursday. The win, built on debutant Rubya Haider’s unbeaten half-century and Shorna Akter’s lethal spell, marked Bangladesh’s second-ever World Cup triumph — both against Pakistan, the first coming in 2022.

Pakistan’s Collapse Under Pressure

Opting to bat first, Pakistan struggled against Bangladesh’s disciplined bowling. Young pacer Marufa Akter struck twice in her very first over, dismissing Omaima Sohail and Sidra Amin off consecutive deliveries. From there, Pakistan never recovered, limping to 129 in just 38.3 overs.

The only resistance came from a 42-run stand between Muneeba Ali and Rameen Shamim, but with a staggering 69% dot-ball rate, the innings lacked momentum. Shorna Akter (3/5) cleaned up the middle order, leaving Pakistan in tatters.

Bangladesh’s Measured Chase

Chasing a modest target, Bangladesh too had their nervy moments. Diana Baig and Fatima Sana picked up key wickets, including skipper Nigar Sultana. At 69/3, the game seemed slightly in the balance.

However, debutant Rubya Haider (54 off 82 balls)* displayed maturity beyond her years. Alongside her captain, she stitched a crucial 62-run stand that steadied the innings. Bangladesh eventually crossed the line in 31.1 overs, sealing the win with 113 balls to spare.

Also Read: Belinda Clark on Women’s ODI World Cup 2025: Handling Pressure Key to India’s Success

A Statement Victory for Bangladesh

While the match lacked the high-scoring drama expected in modern women’s ODIs, Bangladesh’s composure stood out. For skipper Nigar Sultana, the win symbolized belief and progress. “Test match going on here. Come on, girls,” she quipped mid-game, underlining the gritty, old-school nature of the contest.

For Pakistan, the loss was a reality check after recent promising form. Their inability to handle swing early on and rotate strike consistently exposed familiar weaknesses.

Match Summary:

• Pakistan: 129 in 38.3 overs (Shorna Akter 3/5, Marufa Akter 2/31)

• Bangladesh: 131/3 in 31.1 overs (Rubya Haider 54*; Diana Baig 1/25, Fatima Sana 1/28)

• Result: Bangladesh won by 7 wickets

• Toss: Pakistan

• Player of the Match: Marufa Akter

Bangladesh’s second-ever Women’s World Cup victory now sets the tone for a spirited campaign, as the Tigresses eye a deeper run in the tournament.