Bangladesh completed their preparation for the ICC Women's T20 World Cup with a 23-run victory against Pakistan at Ground No. 2 of the ICC Academy in Dubai on Monday.
Despite regular skipper Nigar Sultana Joty playing in the match, it was Dilara Akter who captained Bangladesh in the warm-up game. After winning the toss, Bangladesh opted to bat first and posted a total of 140 runs for seven wickets in their allotted 20 overs.
Although none of the Bangladeshi batters reached a half-century, Swarna Akter's unbeaten 28 was the highest individual score.
Opener Sathi Rani contributed 23 runs, while Joty scored 18. Other notable contributions came from Taj Nehar (17), Sobhana Mostary (15), Ritu Moni (14) and captain Dilara Akter, who added 10 runs.
For Pakistan, Sadia Iqbal claimed two wickets, while Diana Baig, Nida Dar, Tuba Hassan and Omaima Sohail each took one wicket.
In response, Pakistan was bowled out for 117 runs in 18.4 overs. After losing four wickets for 63 runs by the 12th over, Pakistan's batters struggled with the pressure of chasing the target and the regular fall of wickets. Omaima Sohail top-scored with 33 runs, while Gull Feroza and Fatima Sana each contributed 17 runs. Nida Dar added 14 runs.
Bangladesh's bowlers maintained consistent pressure throughout the innings. Marufa Akter, Fahima Khatun, Rabeya Khan and Swarna Akter each took two wickets, while Nahida Akter claimed one.
However, the Tigresses will compete in Group B of the main event, where they are set to face Scotland, England, South Africa and the West Indies. Bangladesh will take on Scotland in opening match of the tournament on October 3, followed by England on October 5, the West Indies on October 10 and South Africa on October 12.
