New Zealand crush Bangladesh by 100 runs to secure first win in ICC Women's World Cup
New Zealand earned their first victory of the ICC Women’s World Cup 2025 by comfortably defeating Bangladesh by 100 runs in the 11th match of the tournament, played in Guwahati, India on Friday, 24NewsHD TV reported.
Chasing a target of 228 runs, Bangladesh’s batting lineup crumbled under pressure and was bowled out for just 127 in the 40th over.
The team struggled from the start as their top five batters failed to reach double figures, putting the side on the back foot early.
Regular fall of wickets increased the pressure on the incoming batters, preventing any meaningful partnerships from forming.
Fahima Khatun (34) and Rabeya Khan (25) were the only players who managed to show some resistance, but their efforts were not enough to steer Bangladesh close to the target.
For New Zealand, Lea Tahuhu and Jess Kerr bowled brilliantly, taking three wickets each, while Rosemary Mair claimed two crucial dismissals to wrap up the innings.
Earlier, New Zealand posted a competitive total of 227 for nine in their allotted 50 overs after electing to bat first.
Brooke Halliday top-scored with an impressive 69, while captain Sophie Devine contributed a solid 63. Suzie Bates (29) and Maddy Green (25) also chipped in with useful runs to build the innings.
For Bangladesh, Rabeya Khan was the pick of the bowlers, finishing with figures of 3 for 30 in her 10-over spell.
However, her efforts went in vain as the Kiwi bowlers completely dominated the chase.
The victory not only gave New Zealand their first points in the tournament but also boosted their confidence as they look to keep their campaign alive in the upcoming fixtures.