The ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2024 kicked off with an encounter between Bangladesh  and Scotland at the Sharjah Cricket Stadium on Thursday, October 3.

Bangladesh, led by captain Nigar Sultana, won the toss and elected to bat, setting a target of 120 runs. Scotland fought hard but ultimately fell short, handing Bangladesh a 16-run victory in a closely contested match.

Sathi Rani and Sobhana Mostary anchor Bangladesh’s innings

Bangladesh posted 119/7 in their 20 overs, with Sathi Rani and Sobhana Mostary providing stability at the top. Sathi Rani, who opened the innings, scored a crucial 29 off 32 balls, striking three boundaries. Sobhana Mostary, batting at number three, top-scored with a composed 36 off 38 balls, hitting two fours. The rest of the batting lineup struggled to accelerate, as Taj Nehar fell for a duck, and Nigar Sultana contributed 18 runs before being dismissed.

Late in the innings, Fahima Khatun played a quick cameo, smashing 10 runs off just 5 balls, including two boundaries, giving Bangladesh a slight boost towards the end of their innings. For Scotland, Saskia Horley was the pick of the bowlers, claiming 3 wickets for just 13 runs in her 2 overs.

Sarah Bryce’s lone stand not enough for Scotland

Chasing 120 to win, Scotland’s innings struggled to gain momentum. Sarah Bryce anchored the chase with a well-constructed 49 off 52 balls, holding one end while wickets tumbled around her. She found brief support from her sister, Kathryn Bryce, who added 11 runs, and Ailsa Lister, who also contributed 11. However, no other batter was able to get going, with Darcey Carter, Priyanaz Chatterji and Lorna Jack all failing to make a significant impact.

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Bangladesh’s bowling was disciplined throughout, with Ritu Moni starring as the standout performer. Her 4 overs yielded 2 wickets for just 15 runs, earning her the Player of the Match award.

Bangladesh restricted Scotland to 103/7 in their 20 overs, securing a 16-run win.

This victory was Bangladesh’s first at the Women’s T20 World Cup in 10 years.

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This article was first published at WomenCricket.com, a Cricket Times company.