The 11th match of the ongoing ICC Women’s ODI World Cup will see New Zealand facing off against Bangladesh on Friday in Guwahati. The showdown carries contrasting narratives for both teams, with New Zealand eying redemption and Bangladesh riding a wave of belief. For New Zealand, the start to the tournament has been a nightmare. Two matches in, and the White Ferns are yet to open their account.
Despite two valiant knocks from skipper Sophie Devine, they have fallen short against Australia and South Africa. As a result, they now find themselves staring down the barrel. Devine’s form has been a silver lining, but the lack of support from the rest of the batting line-up has exposed New Zealand’s vulnerabilities.
On the other hand, Bangladesh have emerged as one of the surprise packages of the tournament. They opened their campaign with a landmark victory over Pakistan and followed it up with a spirited performance against England before falling short by four wickets. Their performance in the last two games has ignited belief among the players as they look ahead to delivering more powerful performances.
Players like Rubya Haider, skipper Nigar Sultana and Sobhana Mostary have stepped up in the batting department when needed. While their bowling attack has been led by the likes of Shorna Akter, Marufa Akter and Nahida Akter. Going into this clash, Bangladesh will see this match as a golden opportunity to deepen New Zealand’s woes and strengthen their position in the tournament.
Head-to-head
Matches - 4
NZ-W won - 2
BAN-W won - 0
NR - 2
Bangladesh probable XI: Rubya Haider, Sharmin Akhter, Nigar Sultana (c&wk), Sobhana Mostary, Mst Ritu Moni, Shorna Akter, Fahima Khatun, Nahida Akter, Rabeya Khan, Marufa Akter, Sanjida Akter Meghla
New Zealand probable XI: Suzie Bates, Georgia Plimmer, Amelia Kerr, Sophie Devine (c), Brooke Halliday, Maddy Green, Isabella Gaze (wk), Jess Kerr/Rosemary Mair, Lea Tahuhu, Eden Carson, Bree Illing