BASSETERRE, St. Kitts – A gritty bowling masterclass by Bangladesh Women leveled the One-Day International (ODI) series against the West Indies in emphatic fashion, securing a 60-run victory in a low-scoring but enthralling contest at Warner Park on Wednesday.
Winning the toss and opting to bat first, Bangladesh managed to post a modest 184 before being bowled out in 48.5 overs. Leading from the front was skipper Nigar Sultana, whose patient yet crucial innings of 68 anchored her side’s total. Striking five boundaries during her 120-ball stand, Sultana remained the backbone of the innings while receiving limited support from teammates.
Sobhana Mostary (23), Shorna Akhter (21), and Fargana Hoque (18) chipped in briefly, but the Bangladeshi line-up largely faltered under the relentless pressure applied by West Indies bowlers.
The standout performer for the home side was Karishma Ramharack, whose remarkable 4-33 showcased her control and variety, while Aliah Alleyne delivered a fiery opening spell, taking 3-24 and dismantling the Bangladeshi top order early.
Nigar Sultana’s grit versus West Indies’ early strikes
The visitors’ innings began on shaky ground as Alleyne removed opener Murshida Khatun (12), and Deandra Dottin dismissed her partner, Fargana Hoque (18), reducing Bangladesh to 56-3. However, Sultana’s poise at the crease steadied the innings, her half-century becoming the foundation of Bangladesh’s total.
Ramharack’s late surge, combined with Alleyne’s dismissal of the tailender Fariha Trisna, ensured the West Indies contained their opponents. Despite their valiant efforts, the total would prove more than enough for the visitors.
In response, the West Indies’ chase began with a glimmer of hope as Hayley Matthews and Shemaine Campbelle looked comfortable after the early loss of Qiana Joseph (6). However, following a brief rain delay, the Windies’ innings unraveled spectacularly.
Campbelle’s 28 emerged as the highest score in a dismal batting display, with Matthews—fresh off a century in the first match—falling for just 16. Alleyne and Cherry-Ann Fraser (18 not out) showed flashes of resistance, but the home team was bundled out for a paltry 124 in just 35 overs.
Bangladesh’s disciplined bowling attack was relentless, with every bowler contributing to the collapse. The victory not only leveled the series but also showcased the depth and determination of the eighth-ranked visitors, ensuring a thrilling decider in the final ODI.
Players react to series momentum shift
Bangladesh skipper Nigar Sultana praised her team’s resolve: “It was a hard-fought win, and every player played their part. We knew we needed to defend our total with discipline, and I’m proud of how the team executed the plan.”
For the West Indies, Matthews acknowledged the disappointment but remained optimistic: “It’s a tough loss, but we’ve shown we can bounce back. We’ll regroup and focus on finishing the series strong.”
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