Juairiya inspires Tigresses to winning start

Opening batter Juairiya Ferdous struck a brilliant half-century to guide Bangladesh to a winning start at the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup as they beat the Netherlands by six wickets in Birmingham on Sunday.

Chasing the Dutch women’s 139/8, the Tigresses reached their destination with five balls to spare riding on Juairiya’s 33-ball 50, laced with seven fours and a couple of sixes.

In pursuit of the target, the women in red and green were off to a great start thanks to Juairiya and Dilara Akter (26), who put on 67.

The Netherlands then tried to stage a comeback by dismissing Juairiya and captain Nigar Sultana Joty (nought) in quick succession. 

Soon after, Dilara and Sobhana Mostary (four) also departed, leaving Bangladesh on 85/4.

Sharmin Akter and Shorna Akter then took over the responsibility of the chase, adding unbroken 56 runs for the fifth wicket to steer their side to the shore.

Sharmin was unbeaten on a 32-ball 37, featuring four boundaries, while Shorna was not out on 18 off 17.

Earlier, batting first, the Dutch posted 139/8 with skipper Babette de Leede top-scoring with a 45-ball 50, studded with five fours.

Marufa Akter bagged two wickets while Fariha Trisna, Sanjida Akter Meghla, Rabeya Khan and Ritu Moni picked up one each.

Nigar and Co will next take on Australia in Leeds on Wednesday before facing Pakistan, India and South Africa in Group A.