England made a strong start to their campaign in the Women's T20 World Cup 2024, defeating Bangladesh by 21 runs on October 5, Saturday. Prior to this match, Nigar Sultana Joty's Tigresses had ended their 16-match losing streak in the mega event by defeating debutants Scotland. Against Heather Knight's England, they showcased moments of brilliance but ultimately ran out of steam.
England overcome Bangladesh scare in opener
By defending a total of 118, England defended their lowest score in the history of the quadrennial event. England will next face South Africa in a rematch of the 2023 semi-finals, where Knight's women suffered a defeat. As for Bangladesh, they have a challenging task ahead when they face the 2016 champions West Indies on October 10 in Sharjah.
Danni Wyatt-Hodge stars with the bat for England
Danni Wyatt-Hodge emerged as the star performer for England after they chose to bat first against Bangladesh. She and Maia Bouchier laid a solid foundation with a partnership of 48 runs for the opening wicket, scored in 6.4 overs. Bouchier played aggressively, making 23 runs off 18 deliveries before being dismissed by Rabeya Khan.
Following Bouchier's departure, Bangladesh tightened their bowling and restricted England to 118 runs for seven wickets. In their final 13.2 overs, England could only manage to score 70 runs. The spin duo of Nahida Akter and Fahima Khatun proved to be a challenge for the English batters, claiming two wickets each.
Wyatt-Hodge played a crucial role in holding the innings together, scoring 41 runs off 40 deliveries, including five fours. Pacer Ritu Moni, who was awarded the Player of the Match for her performance against Scotland, made significant contributions with a couple of quick wickets. Pacer Marufa Akter was unfortunate not to pick up a wicket, as Rabeya dropped a catch off her bowling.
Bangladesh succumb to England spinners
England's strategic choice to field four spin-bowling options, including Sophie Ecclestone, Linsey Smith, Sarah Glenn, and Charlie Dean, paid off in the match. The quartet bowled 16 overs, keeping the Bangladeshi batters under constant pressure.
Sobhana Mostary emerged as the lone fighter for the Tigresses, scoring 44 runs off 48 balls, including one four and a six. However, the right-handed batter from Rangpur struggled to gain momentum, and Dean capitalized on her attempts to accelerate, dismissing her.
Captain Joty contributed a 15-run knock before being run out following a miscommunication with Mostary. Smith was the standout bowler for England, finishing with figures of 4-1-11-2. Glenn claimed the wicket of Shorna Akter, while Ecclestone maintained an economy rate of 5.50.
