Tigresses Suffer 100-Run Defeat Despite Rabeya’s Spin Magic
Bangladesh’s campaign at the ICC Women’s World Cup 2025 hit another stumbling block as they suffered a crushing 100-run defeat to New Zealand in Guwahati on Friday. Despite flashes of brilliance from legspinner Rabeya Khan and all-rounder Fahima Khatun, the Tigresses once again fell short in sustaining momentum against a more experienced side.
New Zealand, led by Sophie Devine’s gritty half-century and Brooke Halliday’s composed 69, posted 227 for 9 in their 50 overs. In reply, Bangladesh were bundled out for just 127 in 39.5 overs, struggling against the disciplined pace attack of Jess Kerr and Lea Tahuhu.
Early Promise, Missed Opportunities
For a brief moment, it seemed Bangladesh were scripting a turnaround story. Having reduced New Zealand to 38 for 3 within the first 10 overs, the Tigresses appeared to be in control. Rabeya Khan, the young legspinner, was once again the star of the bowling unit, taking 3 for 30 and spinning webs around New Zealand’s top order.
However, Bangladesh’s inability to sustain pressure in the middle overs allowed New Zealand to rebuild. Captain Sophie Devine, showing calm and composure, dug deep to weather the storm. Her patient 63 off 91 balls provided the backbone of New Zealand’s innings, while Brooke Halliday’s inventive stroke play added vital runs in the middle phase.
The pair stitched together a crucial 112-run partnership that shifted the momentum completely. Even after their dismissals, late cameos from Maddy Green and Tahuhu pushed New Zealand to a competitive total of 227 for 9 — a score that eventually proved well beyond Bangladesh’s reach.
Devine and Halliday Anchor New Zealand’s Recovery
Sophie Devine, renowned for her explosive batting, adopted a more measured approach in this match. Having endured two defeats against Australia and South Africa earlier in the tournament, she understood the importance of building partnerships rather than chasing flair.
Her partnership with Brooke Halliday showcased controlled aggression. Halliday, who top-scored with 69, used the sweep shot to counter Bangladesh’s spinners effectively. The duo’s patient accumulation frustrated the Bangladeshi bowlers, who missed several opportunities to tighten their grip on the innings.
New Zealand’s innings was further boosted by a strong finish — scoring 74 runs in the last 10 overs. That late acceleration gave their bowlers a comfortable cushion to defend.
Bangladesh’s Batting Collapse
In their chase, Bangladesh’s batting frailties were once again exposed. Facing a modest target of 228, the Tigresses started cautiously but soon found themselves in deep trouble. The top order failed to negotiate the swing and seam of Jess Kerr and Rosemary Mair, collapsing to 22 for 3 inside the first powerplay.
Sobhana Mostary, who had scored a fine half-century against England in the previous match, fell early for just 2. Nigar Sultana and Murshida Khatun also failed to make an impact, leaving Bangladesh reeling.
Lea Tahuhu then joined the attack and produced a devastating spell, removing Sumaiya Akter and Shorna Akter in quick succession. Her subtle variations in length and seam movement proved too good for Bangladesh’s middle order. From 33 for 6, the chase looked beyond repair.
Fahima Khatun fought bravely with a gritty 34 off 80 balls, adding 44 for the eighth wicket with Rabeya Khan, but their resistance only delayed the inevitable. Bangladesh were eventually bowled out for 127 in the 40th over, falling 100 runs short.
Rabeya and Fahima Shine Amid Struggles
Despite the defeat, there were positives for Bangladesh. Rabeya Khan continues to be a revelation in this World Cup. Her flight, accuracy, and control troubled batters throughout the innings, and her figures of 3 for 30 stood out in an otherwise disappointing bowling effort.
Similarly, Fahima Khatun’s innings, though defensive, reflected the resilience Bangladesh needs more of. Coming in when the team was in disarray, she absorbed pressure and batted with discipline. Her 34 runs were the top score for Bangladesh — a testament to her grit under pressure.
However, the lack of consistent partnerships and the team’s inability to rotate strike remain glaring issues. Bangladesh’s batting lineup has struggled to post or chase down competitive totals, an area that coach Hashan Tillakaratne will need to urgently address.
Lessons to Learn for Bangladesh
This defeat marks Bangladesh’s third loss in the ICC Women’s World Cup 2025, following their earlier setbacks against England and now New Zealand. Their only win so far came in the opener against Pakistan, where they showed composure and intent.
Against top-tier teams, however, Bangladesh have struggled to maintain intensity across all phases of the game. The bowlers have done well in patches — especially the spinners — but lapses in fielding and inconsistent batting have cost them dearly.
New Zealand Back on Track
For New Zealand, the win brought relief after two straight losses. They will take heart from Devine’s form and Halliday’s continued consistency. However, concerns remain about their top order, which has repeatedly failed to capitalize on powerplays.
Suzie Bates finally found some rhythm with a 29-ball 33, but Amelia Kerr and Georgia Plimmer still struggled to impose themselves early on. The White Ferns will aim to fix these top-order issues before their next encounter in Colombo.
Bangladesh’s Road Ahead
Bangladesh still have games left in the group stage, and while qualification for the semifinals now looks challenging, the team can still use the remaining fixtures to build experience and confidence. Emerging stars like Rabeya Khan, Marufa Akter, and Sobhana Mostary have shown glimpses of potential that could form the backbone of the team’s future.
If the batting unit can find stability and the middle order contributes more consistently, Bangladesh can still end the tournament on a positive note. Their bowlers, especially spinners, have proved they can trouble world-class sides — it’s the batting and fielding that must catch up.
Conclusion
The Bangladesh vs New Zealand Women’s World Cup 2025 match was a reminder of the gulf in experience between the two sides. Despite a spirited bowling performance led by Rabeya Khan, Bangladesh’s batting collapse cost them the game.
As the Tigresses move forward, they must focus on converting early breakthroughs into sustained dominance and strengthening their batting core. New Zealand, on the other hand, will look to carry this momentum forward as they eye a strong comeback in the tournament.