Dunedin, October 10:
Brooke Halliday and skipper Sophie Devine struck resilient half-centuries before the New Zealand bowlers delivered a collective masterclass to secure a dominant 100-run victory over Bangladesh in the ICC Women’s World Cup 2025 on Friday.
Opting to bat first, New Zealand endured a shaky start, slipping to 38 for 3 in the 11th over as Georgia Plimmer (4), Suzie Bates (29), and Amelia Kerr (6) fell in quick succession. However, a composed 112-run partnership between Halliday and Devine for the fourth wicket steadied the innings and set up a competitive total.
Halliday, the more aggressive of the pair, crafted a well-judged 69 off 104 balls, laced with five boundaries and a six. Devine, on the other hand, anchored the innings with a patient 63 off 85 balls, featuring two fours and two sixes. Together, they lifted the White Ferns from trouble to a respectable 227 for 9 in their allotted 50 overs.
Rabeya Khan (3/30) was the standout performer for Bangladesh with the ball, while Nishita Akhter (2/42) provided crucial support.
In reply, Bangladesh never found their footing and crumbled under pressure, managing only 127 in 39.5 overs. The top order failed to offer any resistance, collapsing to 30 for 5 by the 14th over. Skipper Nigar Sultana, Rubya Haider, Sharmin Akhter, and Sobhana Mostary all fell cheaply as the Kiwi pacers ran riot.
Fahima Khatun (34) and Rabeya Khan (25) showed brief resilience, adding 44 runs for the eighth wicket, while Nahida Akhter chipped in with 17. But their efforts were too little, too late.
New Zealand’s bowling unit was clinical. Jess Kerr (3/21) and Lea Tahuhu (3/22) dismantled the Bangladeshi lineup with pace and precision, while Rosemary Mair (2/20) ensured no lower-order comeback.
With this victory, the White Ferns not only bounced back from their early batting jitters but also strengthened their position in the group standings. For Bangladesh, it was yet another reminder of their need for consistency and composure against higher-ranked sides.
Key Performers:
- New Zealand: Brooke Halliday 69 (104), Sophie Devine 63 (85); Jess Kerr 3/21, Lea Tahuhu 3/22
- Bangladesh: Fahima Khatun 34, Rabeya Khan 25; Rabeya Khan 3/30
Result: New Zealand won by 100 runs.
Player of the Match: Brooke Halliday
