'I can't explain this feeling': Juairiya Ferdous after match-winning fifty vs Netherlands
Birmingham, June 14
Bangladesh opener Juairiya Ferdous described her match-winning half-century against the Netherlands as a special moment after helping her side begin their ICC Women's T20 World Cup 2026 campaign with a six-wicket victory at Edgbaston on Sunday.
The 20-year-old opener was named Player of the Match after scoring a brilliant 50 off 33 balls, an innings that included seven fours and two sixes. Her aggressive knock laid the foundation for Bangladesh's successful chase of 140, which they completed in 19.1 overs.
Making her Women's T20 World Cup debut, Juairiya said she was determined to make full use of the powerplay on a batting-friendly surface.
"It's my first World Cup. First match today. The pitch was very flat, and the target was 140. Opening batters have to use the powerplay fully, so I tried my best," Juairiya said after receiving the Player of the Match award.
Bangladesh made a cautious start to the chase before Juairiya shifted gears, taking the attack to the Dutch bowlers and helping her side seize control of the contest. Her fifty came off just 32 deliveries and put Bangladesh firmly on course for victory.
The young batter admitted she was overwhelmed after reaching the milestone in such an important match.
"I can't explain this feeling. It's a big achievement for me and my team," she said.
Juairiya also acknowledged the role played by her teammates, coaches and support staff in helping her develop into a key member of the Bangladesh side.
"All the officials, all the players, my captain and the coaches have always supported me and believed in me," she added.
Her innings proved to be the difference between the two sides as Bangladesh overcame a brief middle-order wobble before Sharmin Akhter and Shorna Akter completed the chase. The victory gave Bangladesh a winning start to their World Cup campaign, with Juairiya's memorable debut emerging as one of the highlights of the day.
— IANS
Reader Comments
So happy to see women's cricket growing in South Asia! Juairiya's 50 off 33 balls with 7 fours and 2 sixes is the kind of aggressive batting we need more of. Bangladesh women's team is really coming up strong, and it's inspiring for the entire region. Kudos to her and the team!
Fair play to Juairiya, she made it look easy. But honestly, 140 was a bit low for a flat pitch. I wish we saw more Indian women's matches like this on TV. BCCI should really consider sending some of our young players to leagues like this to learn. Still, a solid knock, no doubt. ⚡
Excellent innings from a young talent! The powerplay usage was spot on. As an Indian cricket fan, it's great to see Asian teams performing well on the world stage. Hope she continues this form throughout the tournament. Bangladesh cricket is in good hands! 🔥
Juairiya's innings is a reminder of how important fearless cricket is. She took on the powerplay, attacked the bowlers, and let her team win with an over to spare. So refreshing to see such maturity at 20! Bangladesh women's team is giving tough competition. Would love to see India vs Bangladesh in the knockout stages! 💪
Great effort from Juairiya. 50 off 33 is always special in a World Cup debut. However, I feel Bangladesh's middle order still looks shaky. They lost a few quick wickets after her dismissal. But credit where it's due, she set the platform perfectly. Hope our
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