Sports Desk:

Bangladesh extended their strong form in the ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup 2025 Qualifier with a 34-run victory over Scotland in Lahore.

Skipper Nigar Sultana Joty was once again the star for Bangladesh with the bat, remaining unbeaten on 83 as Bangladesh posted their highest-ever Women’s ODI total. Nahida Akter’s brilliant four-wicket haul sealed the deal as they defended the score by 34 runs to go atop the standings.

Bangladesh won the toss and chose to bat first against Scotland, aiming to maintain their unbeaten streak in the tournament. The match began evenly, with both sides competing hard, but it was Scotland’s Priyanaz Chatterji who drew first blood by dismissing opener Ishma Tanjim.

Sharmin Akhter then joined Fargana Hoque at the crease, continuing her strong form as the duo put together a crucial 103-run partnership. Sharmin was eventually dismissed for 57 by Kathryn Bryce, and Hoque followed shortly after, falling to Chloe Abel.

Skipper Nigar Sultana Joty led from the front with a blistering knock of 83 off just 59 balls. Despite limited support from the middle order, Bangladesh managed to post a strong total of 276, thanks to three half-centuries and useful contributions throughout the lineup.

Bangladesh began their defense strongly, with Marufa Akter delivering a stunning delivery to dismiss Abbi Aitken-Drummond early. Nahida Akter soon joined the action, claiming the crucial wickets of Scotland captain Kathryn Bryce and Pippa Sproul, leaving Scotland in deep trouble at 31/3. A brief rebuilding effort was cut short when Ailsa Lister was run out for 18, adding further pressure to the Scottish chase.

Sarah Bryce tried to steady the chase but her efforts ultimately went inain after she hit one straight back to Jannatul Ferdus, who caught it with ease. Megan McColl and Katherine Fraser were dismissed for measly figures of 5 and 8 respectively, further denting Scotland’s stride.

Just when things were looking done, Priyanaz Chatterji and Rachel Slater combined to add a blazing 115-run stand for the eighth wicket, a record partnership in Women’s ODIs and the first record for partnerships for any wicket in women’s ODIs held by Scotland.

The aforementioned pair notched up half-centuries each as Scotland eventually finished on 242/9 after their alloted quota of 50 overs.

Nahida Akter led with the ball for Bangladesh, picking up 4-40 from her 10 overs.