Outplaying with 21-runs, Heather Knight-led Team England secured victory over Niger Sultana-led Team Bangladesh, opening their Women's T20 World Cup campaign in Sharjah. English players triumphed despite having an unconvincing batting performance in the 6th match of ICC Women's T20 World Cup 2024.
Team England picked to bat first after winning the toss, ensuring their win due to an amazing delivery of four-pronged spin attack, where Linsey Smith was also included, having a consideration for the pitch and outfield that got slow past innings. Despite losing 7 wickets, Team England was able to score 118 runs in 20 overs, due to the contribution of Danni Wyatt-Hodge’s cracking 41 out of 40 at 100 plus strike rates, successfully obtaining the title of Player of the match.
Moreover, Bangladesh bowlers, Ritu Moni, Fahima Khatun and Nahida Akter displayed excellent team effort, picking up two wickets apiece. Bangladesh team was restricted for only 97 runs with all the players struggling to pass even 2-digit scores besides an exception to Sobhana Mostary’s 44.
Becoming the stand-out bowler of the batch, Linsey Smith took 2/11 from her 4 overs with Charlie Dean having 2/22, Sarah Glenn 1/22 and finally Sophie Ecclestone contributing to the limited scoring since Team England sent down a total of 16 overs of spin in the innings.
In closing, both the Team captains expressed about enjoying the match at such tough conditions. Now, Team Bangladesh shall look forward to bounce back with their focus towards a decisive round with West Indies in the upcoming match.
