New Zealand secured their first victory of the Women’s World Cup 2025 with a commanding 100-run win over Bangladesh in the 11th match of the tournament, played at Guwahati.
Chasing a target of 228 runs, the Bangladeshi batting lineup crumbled under pressure and was bowled out for just 127 runs in the 40th over. The top-order failed miserably, with the first five batters unable to reach double figures. The regular fall of wickets added to the pressure on incoming batters, resulting in a total batting collapse.
Fahima Khatun top-scored with 34 runs, while Rabeya Khan contributed 25 runs in a losing cause. For New Zealand, Lea Tahuhu and Jess Kerr were the pick of the bowlers, claiming three wickets each, while Rosemary Mair chipped in with two wickets.
Earlier, after winning the toss and opting to bat, New Zealand posted a competitive total of 227/9 in their allotted 50 overs. Brooke Halliday played a steady innings of 69 runs, while skipper Sophie Devine added a solid 63. Suzie Bates (29) and Maddy Green (25) also made useful contributions.
For Bangladesh, Rabeya Khan was the standout bowler, picking up 3 wickets for just 30 runs.
With this win, New Zealand not only opened their account on the points table but also gave their net run rate a significant boost.
