England Narrowly Defeats Bangladesh in Thrilling 2025 Women’s ODI World Cup Clash Under Knight’s Leadership

In a tense encounter at the Barsapara Stadium in Guwahati, England secured a four-wicket victory against Bangladesh during the Women’s ODI World Cup 2025 league stage on Tuesday.

Sophie Ecclestone’s impressive three-wicket performance, along with a vital partnership between Heather Knight and Charlie Dean, ensured victory for the four-time champions.

Despite losing the toss, Bangladesh skipper Nigar Sultana Joty stated they were keen to bat first. However, the team experienced early setbacks with Rubya Haider Jhelik and Joty herself departing quickly, the latter without scoring.

While Sharmin Akter was batting confidently on 30, her innings ended after the floodlights were turned on as she edged a ball from Ecclestone to Amy Jones. Ecclestone applied pressure with three consecutive maiden overs, two of them being wicket maidens.

AS IT HAPPENED: ENG-W vs BAN-W Highlights

Captain Nat Sciver-Brunt ably supported Ecclestone’s economical spell by setting tight field positions, including placing Tammy Beaumont at silly point, which added to the batters’ frustration. Consequently, Bangladesh managed to score just 16 runs between overs 21 and 30.

Joty was seen conveying instructions from the dressing room, likely urging her batters to increase their scoring rate. Sobhana Mostary’s composed innings of 60 and Rabeya Khan’s aggressive 43 helped Bangladesh post a total of 178 in 49.4 overs.

Having previously defended a low total against Pakistan, Bangladesh’s bowlers sought to replicate their performance. Marufa Akter provided a strong start by swinging the ball and removing both England openers early.

Fahima Khatun further disrupted England’s middle-order, dismissing established players Sciver-Brunt and Sophia Dunkley in the same over before sending Emma Lamb back to the pavilion. During the 11th to 20th overs, England could only score 25 runs.

Shanjida Akther Maghla made an impact on her World Cup debut by dismissing Alice Capsey, putting Bangladesh in a strong position.

However, a decisive 79-run stand between Knight and Dean shifted the match in England’s favor. Knight’s patient innings of 50 from 86 balls, despite three missed chances, elevated England to the top of the standings.

Published on Oct 07, 2025