Marufa Akter Set for Potential Comeback in New Zealand Clash

Bangladesh fast bowler Marufa Akter is expected to play against New Zealand after recovering from a muscle strain that limited her overs against England in the current ICC Women’s World Cup. Bangladesh lost that match by four wickets.

In her five-over spell, Marufa was impressive, claiming two wickets (Amy Jones and Tammy Beaumont) for just 28 runs, putting significant pressure on the opposition. However, she was unable to continue due to a muscle strain sustained in her fifth over.

Her absence disrupted Bangladesh’s bowling strategy, as the team faced challenges in securing pivotal breakthroughs during the middle overs. She has resumed practice ahead of the upcoming match against New Zealand.

“She is available tomorrow. She has been bowling without experiencing any discomfort, so it appears she will be fit for the game against New Zealand,” a BCB official accompanying the team informed Cricbuzz on Thursday.

“She was prepared to bowl towards the end of the England innings, but the management opted against risking her participation,” he added.

Bangladesh spinner Nahida Akter believes they can make a strong comeback against New Zealand after their loss to England in the previous match.

“The match we lost is in the past. We cannot change it, so our focus is now on the upcoming game. We are not concentrating on any specific opponent; our strategy is to perform better as a batting and bowling unit,” stated Nahida.

“We played well as a team in the last match. Our bowling unit performed admirably. The focus will remain the same. The batsmen are also contributing effectively. If one or two had batted slightly better, our score might have been higher,” she added.

Bangladesh will face New Zealand at Barsapara Cricket Stadium in Guwahati on September 10.