Bangladesh may have fallen short against tournament favourites England, but Fahima Khatun insists her team have proven they are no pushovers at the ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup 2025.
Knight the Difference for England
England’s skipper Heather Knight produced a masterclass in composure, steering her side to a tense four-wicket win with an unbeaten 79 off 111 balls in Guwahati. Her innings, built on patience and game awareness, helped England recover from 78/5 and ensured they maintained their unbeaten record in the competition.
Bangladesh, however, believe the game was theirs for the taking had Knight been dismissed earlier.
“We were trying hard to get Heather Knight’s wicket because if we had got her out at that stage, things would have been much better,” Khatun admitted after the match.
Despite the defeat, Bangladesh remain upbeat, confident that their spirited performance showed they can compete with the world’s best.
Belief Growing in Bangladesh Camp
Bangladesh began their World Cup campaign with a clinical win over Pakistan and currently sit fourth in the table with one win and one loss. For Khatun and her teammates, that early victory has set the tone for their ambitions.
“We came to this World Cup not just to play but to win, no matter who our opponent is. We don’t see anyone as superior—we focus on our strengths and aim to play our best cricket on the day,” she said.
Khatun herself was outstanding with the ball, finishing with 3/16 in a spell that kept Bangladesh in the contest. England’s middle-order duo Alice Capsey (20) and Charlie Dean (27*) eventually steadied the chase, guiding their side home with four overs to spare.
Missed Opportunity with Marufa Akter
A key factor in the result was the limited role of young pace sensation Marufa Akter, who bowled only five overs before leaving the field with cramp. Her absence in the latter stages proved costly, but teammates downplayed any injury concerns.
“She was feeling some cramping issues, but she’s fine now. If she could’ve bowled two or three more overs, it might have been a different result. We really missed her,” Khatun noted.
Next Challenge: New Zealand Clash
Bangladesh now turn their attention to Friday’s clash with winless New Zealand, another crucial test as they look to strengthen their push for a semi-final spot.
Bangladesh Squad: Nigar Sultana Joty (c), Nahida Akter, Fargana Hoque, Rubya Haider Jhelik, Sharmin Akter Supta, Sobhana Mostary, Ritu Moni, Shorna Akter, Fahima Khatun, Rabeya Khan, Marufa Akter, Fariha Islam Trisna, Shanjida Akther Maghla, Nishita Akter Nishi, Sumaiya Akter