Sharmin Akhterβs maiden T20I half-century and a strong bowling display helped Bangladesh Tigresses secure a 21-run win over the USA in their opening Group B match of the ICC Womenβs T20 World Cup Qualifiers at Mulpani Cricket Ground, Kathmandu, Nepal.
Sharmin scored 63 off 39 balls, including eight fours and a six, while Sobhana Mostary contributed a useful 32 off 29 balls to help Bangladesh post 159-5 in their 20 overs after being asked to bat first.
USAβs pacers Maahi Madhavan and Isaani Vaghela took three and two wickets respectively, but the innings couldnβt reach the target.
In reply, the USA were restricted to 137-9, with Nahida Akter leading the bowling attack with figures of 4-24. Ritu Moni claimed three wickets and Rabeya Khatun took two.
The USA had a steady start, reaching 55-1 after nine overs, before Ritu Moni triggered a collapse by removing three key batters in quick succession, including opener Chetna Pagyadyala (36 off 31 balls), leaving the visitors at 68-4.
Late in the innings, Ritu Singh threatened a comeback with a quick 33 off 13 balls, hitting four fours and two sixes. However, experienced spinner Nahida Akter dismissed her in the 18th over and followed up with the wickets of Geetika Kodali (duck) and Tarannum Copra (10), finishing with four wickets in her spell.
Bangladesh will now face Papua New Guinea in their next Group B encounter at Kirtipur on Tuesday.
