In the ongoing ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2026 Global Qualifier, Bangladesh started their campaign with a strong statement, a 21-run win over the United States of America (USA) that puts them in second place with 2 points and a healthy NRR of +1.050. On the other hand, Papua New Guinea (PNG) had a difficult day at home against Ireland. They were outscored by 41 runs, leaving them at the bottom of the table with a discouraging NRR of -2,050. For PNG, this is not just a game; It is a necessary fight to prevent their qualification dreams from fading prematurely.
Squads:
Bangladesh women’s cricket team
Farzana Haque, Sharmin Akhter, Sobhana Mostary, Sumaiya Akter, Fahima Khatun, Mst Ritu Moni, Shorna Akter, Nigar Sultana Joty, Rubya Haider, Fariha Trisna, Marufa Akter, Nahida Akter, Nishita Akter Nishi, Rabeya Khan, Shanjida Akther Maghla
Papua New Guinea women’s cricket team
Konio Oala, Lakshmi Rajadurai, Miria Raio, Naoani Vare, Henao Thomas, Hollan Doriga, Pauke Siaka, Brenda Tau, Dika Lohia, Erani Pokana, Geua Tom, Hane Tau, Isabel Toua, Mairi Tom
Players to watch out for:
Sharmin Akhter
Sharmin was Bangladesh’s standout player in their first match, anchoring the innings with a brilliant 63 off 39 deliveries. His knock was a masterclass in aggressive but controlled batting, with eight boundaries and a towering six. It was his steady hand that propelled the team to a win total, proving that he is in elite touch at the start of this tournament.
Nahida Akter
Nahida provided a bowling clinic in her first outing, finishing with remarkable figures of 4/24. She consistently troubled the batsmen during her four-over spell, maintaining an economy of 6.00 while providing crucial breakthroughs. Her ability to attack at regular intervals makes her the main threat in Bangladesh’s bowling attack as they advance.
Hollan Doriga
Hollan showed plenty of grit during PNG’s difficult opening match, finishing as her team’s top scorer with 19 runs. Facing a disciplined bowling attack, he managed to clear the ropes twice, providing much-needed resistance in the middle order. Although the result was not what was expected, his intention in the area was a positive sign for the team.
Hane Tau
Hane was a silver lining for the PNG bowling unit, putting in a tireless effort to claim 4 wickets for 25 runs. He bowled his full quota of four overs with great discipline, keeping the Irish batsmen on their toes and finishing with a strike rate of 6.00. His performance stands out as one of the best individual bowling displays of the first round.
Passed:
The Tribhuvan University International Cricket Pitch provides a constant bounce on the turf, which helps the front pacers and spinners as it wears down, making it suitable for bowlers. T20 statistics in 39 games average 160 first innings, with 21 batting wins. Limits between 60 and 86 m require precision.
Climate:
Expect a beautiful sunny day in Kirtipur. Temperatures will reach a comfortable 19°C during the day and drop to a chilly 5°C at night. There is a 0% chance of rain, with a light wind blowing from the west at 5 mph.
Fantasy playing XI:
Sharmin Akhter, Sobhana Mostary, Sumaiya Akter, Nahida Akter, Nishita Akter Nishi, Rabeya Khan, Naoani Vare, Hollan Doriga, Pauke Siaka, Brenda Tau, Hane Tau
Match details:
Date – January 20, 2025
Time: 8:45 am IST
Venue: Tribhuvan University International Cricket Ground, Kirtipur
Streaming: The game will be streamed live on the FanCode app and website.
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