Bangladesh Women scripted a historic chapter in their ODI journey, clinching their first-ever win over Sri Lanka women’s national cricket team with a tense three-wicket victory in the opening match of the series in Rajshahi. At the heart of the win was a composed and match-defining innings from Sharmin Akhter, who scored a brilliant 86 off 127 deliveries. Her knock, laced with 13 boundaries, not only guided Bangladesh through a tricky chase of 206 but also marked her highest score against Sri Lanka in ODIs.
Chasing a modest yet competitive target, Bangladesh women’s national cricket team had a shaky start. Early wickets left them struggling at 34 for 3 within the first 10 overs, putting immediate pressure on the middle order. Sharmin, however, steadied the innings with calm authority. Alongside Sobhana Mostary, she stitched together a crucial 87-run partnership for the fourth wicket. Mostary contributed a fluent 41 before being forced off the field due to severe cramps, briefly halting Bangladesh’s momentum.
After Mostary’s exit, Sharmin continued to anchor the innings, adding another valuable stand with Shorna Akter. Bangladesh appeared to be cruising towards victory before a dramatic collapse nearly turned the match on its head.
With just seven runs required, Sharmin was stumped in the 45th over, triggering a sudden slide. Bangladesh lost four wickets for just one run, as Sri Lanka clawed their way back into contention through disciplined bowling, particularly from offspinner Dewmi Vihanga, who finished with 3 for 43. The pressure intensified, but Bangladesh held their nerve in the closing stages. Nahida Akter and Sultana Khatun managed to guide the team home, capitalising on a wide delivery and a costly misfield to seal the win in the 47th over.
Earlier in the day, Sri Lanka posted 205 for 9 after opting to bat first. Stand-in captain Hasini Perera, leading in the absence of Chamari Athapaththu, provided a solid start alongside Imesha Dulani. The pair added 68 runs for the opening wicket, laying a strong foundation. Dulani impressed with a well-crafted 52, while Hansima Karunaratne added another 54, anchoring the middle overs. Their contributions kept Sri Lanka in control for large parts of the innings.
However, Bangladesh’s bowlers staged a comeback in the latter half. Ritu Moni was particularly effective, claiming 3 for 36 and breaking key partnerships. Left-arm spinner Nahida Akter also chipped in with two crucial wickets, helping restrict Sri Lanka from pushing beyond the 220-mark. A middle-order collapse saw Sri Lanka lose momentum, with wickets falling in clusters during the final overs.
The match held added significance as it marked the first international fixture hosted in Rajshahi. The venue witnessed a memorable contest, with Bangladesh’s victory adding to the occasion’s historic value. This win is a major milestone for Bangladesh Women, who have been steadily improving in the ODI format. Their ability to chase under pressure and recover from a late collapse reflects growing maturity and depth in the squad.
With this victory, Bangladesh take a 1-0 lead in the series, gaining both confidence and momentum. The performance also highlights key positives, including Sharmin’s consistency, the middle-order resilience, and a bowling unit capable of delivering breakthroughs at crucial moments. For Sri Lanka, the loss will prompt reflection, particularly on their inability to close out the game despite a late surge. Improving death bowling and fielding discipline will be key areas to address ahead of the next match.
