Bangladesh stun Pakistan with 7-wicket win at Women’s World Cup

Bangladesh handed Pakistan a seven-wicket defeat in the Women’s Cricket World Cup on Thursday, bowling their opponents out for just 129 before chasing down the target with ease.

On her ODI debut, Rubya Haider anchored Bangladesh’s reply with an unbeaten 54, striking eight fours as the team reached 131-3 in 31.3 overs.

She shared key stands with captain Nigar Sultana (23) and Sobhana Mostary (24 not out), guiding her side to only their second-ever World Cup win, both against Pakistan.

Earlier, Pakistan’s batting faltered against Bangladesh’s spin attack. Marufa Akter removed Omaima Sohail and Sidra Amin in the opening over, while 18-year-old Shorna Akter ripped through the lower order with career-best figures of 3-5.

Left-arm spinner Nahida Akter also contributed with 2-19 as Pakistan were dismissed inside 39 overs.

Rameen Shamim top-scored for Pakistan with 23, but no other batter crossed 20. Pakistan, who will play all seven group-stage matches in Colombo, must regroup quickly as they eye a semifinal berth in Sri Lanka’s capital.