New Zealand celebrates victory in their opening ICC Women’s World Cup match! They took care of business against Bangladesh, winning by 100 runs in an exciting match in Guwahati. The victory marked a significant turning point for the team, which had struggled in its opening matches of the tournament. New Zealand’s skipper Sophie Devine proved most influential in their victory, scoring 63 runs from 84 balls. Her leadership and skill as a former slugger were essential in guiding the team to an astounding 227 runs.
With bat in hand, New Zealand scored 227 runs losing 9 wickets in their permitted 50 overs. The team struggled early in the game. They soon discovered their own anchor in an important partnership between Devine and Brooke Halliday. Halliday was the backbone of that innings, making 69 runs from 104 balls. He joined his new partner in crime to put on a crucial 112 for the fourth wicket. This partnership became crucial in calming the stormy tides after the team had lost initial wickets quickly.
Bangladesh faltered badly in their run chase, managing only 127 runs. It’s the one moment they all wish they could change, when they were bowled out in 39.5 overs. Jess Kerr was the star of New Zealand’s bowling attack, taking 3/21 as wickets fell regularly. At the same time, Rabeya Khan continued to sparkle for Bangladesh, picking the same number of wickets but conceding 30 runs.
Captain Sophie Devine was proud of her team’s efforts after the game.
“Really pleased for the side to finally get on the board in tough circumstances with the bat. It wasn’t the prettiest from Brooke [Halliday] and I, but sometimes you have to do it ugly.” – Sophie Devine
Devine reiterated that all points in their competition count. She emphasized the importance of diligence as the tournament continues.
“Every point is absolute gold. We’ve got to focus on the next day. We can’t control what else happens.” – Sophie Devine
Sophie Devine’s performance for New Zealand has been a revelation throughout the tournament. With this latest match, she has accumulated a T20I total of 260 runs. That astonishing feat makes up 37% of her entire team’s total runs scored in this World Cup.
The victory moved New Zealand into fifth place on the full tournament standings. As a result, they now sit tied with Bangladesh, who currently occupy that sixth place spot, at two points. The match showcased New Zealand’s resilience and ability to overcome early setbacks, providing a boost of confidence as they move forward in the competition.
Nigar Sultana Joty, captain of Bangladesh, admitted that her team had an off-day on the field but stayed hopeful and looked ahead to upcoming matches. The team will use their experiences to rediscover their rhythm and start a new winning streak, as they carry their aspirations with them into the next challenge.
The 2022 ICC Women’s World Cup is getting good! While New Zealand will be keen to continue their winning momentum, Bangladesh will look to improve their form and clinch important points in the matches ahead. Even as the tournament narrows, teams continue to compete for places that would set them up for potential deep runs in future rounds.
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