England claimed a 21-run victory over Bangladesh in Sharjah to get their Women’s T20 World Cup campaign off to a winning start.
Openers Danni Wyatt-Hodge (41) and Maia Bouchier (23) made a steady start for England, putting on 48, after Heather Knight won the toss and elected to bat.
However, Bangladesh’s bowlers, namely Fahima Khatun (2-18) and Ritu Moni (2-24), made regular breakthroughs, dismissing the dangerous Nat Sciver-Brunt (2) and Knight (6) cheaply.
Nahida Akter (2-32) also contributed to Bangladesh’s attack as five of England’s middle and lower order batters fell in single figures as they limped to 118-7.
In reply, Bangladesh were quickly reduced to 17-2 with Charlie Dean (2-22) and Linsey Smith (2-11) striking early and removing their openers.
Sobhana Mostary (44) added resistance to Bangladesh’s middle-order with a 35-run partnership alongside her captain Nigar Sultana Joty (15) but was dismissed lbw by Dean.
Sciver-Brunt (1-20) and Sarah Glenn (1-22) also claimed the wickets, picking up one apiece as England defended their lowest-ever total in a Women’s T20 World Cup.
More to follow…
What’s next for each side at Women’s T20 World Cup?
England face South Africa in Sharjah on Monday October 7 at 3pm while Bangladesh come up against West Indies on Thursday October 11. Both games will be live on Sky Sports.
Watch every match of the 2024 Women’s T20 World Cup live on Sky Sports, concluding with the final in Dubai on Sunday October 20.