England Women survived a major scare in a tense, low-scoring battle against Bangladesh Women, with captain Heather Knight’s unbeaten 79 guiding her team to a four-wicket victory and keeping them firmly at the top of the group stage table.
On a pitch that offered plenty of assistance to the bowlers, Knight’s composure proved the difference. Chasing a modest 178, England’s top order faltered early as both openers fell cheaply. Coming in at No. 3, Knight steadied the innings alongside Natalie Sciver-Brunt, rebuilding patiently against disciplined bowling.
When Sciver-Brunt was dismissed, Bangladesh sensed an opening. Leg-spinner Fahima Khatun turned the game on its head with a brilliant spell, dismantling the middle order and putting England under immense pressure. However, Knight’s calm, methodical approach anchored the chase. She reached a hard-fought half-century and, with crucial support from Alice Capsey and Charlotte Dean, steered her side home with 23 balls to spare.
Bangladesh Women vs England Women
Earlier, Bangladesh had shown impressive resilience with the bat on a tough surface. Sobhana Mostary led the charge with a stylish 60, while Rabeya Khan added late fireworks with a quick 43 off just 27 balls. Yet, England’s spin trio of Sophie Ecclestone (3/24), Alice Capsey (2 wickets), and Charlotte Dean (2 wickets) kept the scoring in check, ensuring Bangladesh were bowled out for 178 in 49.4 overs.
Though Bangladesh’s total proved just short, their spirited performance pushed one of the tournament favourites to the brink. For England, Knight’s innings once again highlighted her class and leadership under pressure securing another crucial win to remain unbeaten at the top of the standings.
| Match Summary | Bangladesh Women vs England Women |
|---|---|
| Venue | Barsapara Stadium |
| Bangladesh Women | 178/10 (49.4 overs) |
| Top Scorers | Sobhana Mostary 60, Rabeya Khan 43 |
| Top Bowlers (England) | Sophie Ecclestone 3/24, Alice Capsey 2 wickets, Charlotte Dean 2 wickets |
| England Women | 182/6 (46.1 overs) |
| Top Scorers | Heather Knight 79*, Alice Capsey 28 |
| Top Bowlers (Bangladesh) | Fahima Khatun 3 wickets |
| Result | England Women won by 4 wickets |