Sports Desk | dbarta24.com ; RAJSHAHI – The Bangladesh Women’s National Team secured a hard-fought 3-wicket victory against Sri Lanka in the series-opening ODI at the Shahid Kamruzzaman Stadium on Monday.
Chasing a target of 206, the hosts crossed the finish line with 9 balls to spare, overcoming a tense batting collapse in the final stages.
Earlier, after winning the toss and electing to bat, Sri Lanka posted 205 for 9 in their allotted 50 hours. The visitors enjoyed a solid start with a 68-run opening stand between Hasini Perera and Imesha Dulani.
However, despite half-centuries from Imesha (52) and Hansima Karunaratne (54), Sri Lanka lost their momentum, losing 7 wickets for just 45 runs in the death overs.
Ritu Moni was the pick of the bowlers for Bangladesh, claiming 3 wickets, while Nahida Akter chipped in with 2.
In reply, Bangladesh faced an early scare, slumped to 34 for 3. Sharmin Akter and Sobhana Mostary then anchored the innings with a vital 87-run partnership.
Sobhana was forced to retire hurt on 41, but Sharmin continued her dominance, scoring a brilliant 86 before being stumped with the finish line in sight.
A sudden flurry of wickets—including Shorna Akter (35), Ritu Moni, and Rabeya Khan within a single run—put the Tigresses under immense pressure.
However, Nahida Akter and Sultana Khatun remained composed, guiding the team to victory and ensuring a 1-0 lead in the series.