Guwahati, Oct 8: England edged past Bangladesh by four wickets in a compelling encounter in the ICC Women’s World Cup at the Barsapara Cricket Stadium here on Tuesday, showcasing a disciplined all-round performance that underlined their title credentials.Bangladesh, sent in to bat, struggled to build momentum against a probing England bowling attack. Early setbacks left them reeling at 59 for three, with wickets tumbling at regular intervals.
Sobhana Mostary anchored the innings with a patient 60 off 108 deliveries, offering resistance in the middle order.
However, it was the late flourish from Rabeya Khan, who smashed 43 off just 27 balls, including a towering six and six crisp fours, that added some respectability to the total, helping Bangladesh post 178 in 49.4 overs.
England’s bowling was led by left-arm spinner Sophie Ecclestone, who returned figures of 3 for 24, while off-spinner Charlie Dean contributed 2 for 28.
The spin trio of Linsey Smith (2/33), Alice Capsey (2/31), and Lauren Bell (1/28) complemented the attack brilliantly, ensuring Bangladesh never managed to gain a foothold in the innings. Fahima Khatun emerged as Bangladesh’s most successful bowler with 3 for 16, providing crucial breakthroughs.
Chasing 179 for victory, England’s batters took charge from the outset. Captain Heather Knight led the way with an unbeaten 79, displaying a blend of composure and aggression.
The English side reached their target in 46.1 overs, finishing on 182 for 6.
Key contributions from the middle order helped steady the innings after early hiccups, with the team maintaining control despite occasional bursts of resistance from the Bangladesh bowlers. The victory underlined England’s ability to execute plans under pressure, combining tactical bowling with clinical batting to secure a crucial win.
Bangladesh, despite the loss, will take positives from the performances of Mostary and Khan, who showed glimpses of skill and temperament against a top-tier side.
The result keeps England in strong contention in the early stages of the Women’s World Cup, while Bangladesh will look to regroup and build on the positives in their next match.