Scotland Women's T20I tri-series: Dilara Akter's record-breaking fifty powers Bangladesh past Netherlands
Edinburgh, June 5
Bangladesh opener Dilara Akter produced a record-breaking innings to guide her side to a 13-run victory over the Netherlands in a rain-shortened women's T20I tri-series match in Edinburgh on Thursday.
The right-handed batter smashed a whirlwind half-century off just 22 deliveries, registering the fastest fifty by a Bangladesh woman in T20 international cricket. Her feat eclipsed the previous national record of 28 balls set by Rumana Ahmed against Pakistan in Lahore in 2019.
According to ICC, Dilara's explosive knock of 51 from 26 balls, studded with eight fours and two sixes, laid the foundation for Bangladesh's competitive total of 98 for 3 in a match reduced to eight overs per side due to rain interruptions. Her 22-ball fifty also ranks among the fastest in women's T20I history.
Bangladesh made a flying start as Dilara and fellow opener Juairiya Ferdous added 42 runs for the opening wicket in just 21 deliveries. After Juairiya's dismissal, Dilara continued the assault and shared a brisk 40-run partnership with Sobhana Mostary, ensuring Bangladesh maintained the momentum throughout their innings.
Chasing 99, the Netherlands responded aggressively. Heather Siegers scored 21 off 15 balls, while Babette de Leede struck a rapid 30 from 14 deliveries. The pair put together a 53-run opening stand off only 28 balls, keeping the Dutch side firmly in contention.
However, Bangladesh clawed their way back through left-arm seamer Fariha Trisna, who struck twice in the fifth over to derail the chase. Trisna finished with figures of 2 for 20 and played a crucial role in shifting the momentum.
Robine Rijke added a quick 21, but Bangladesh held their nerve in the closing stages. Ritu Moni delivered the decisive blow with two wickets in the final over as the Netherlands were restricted to 85 for 5.
The victory secured Bangladesh's second place in the tri-series standings behind hosts Scotland, while the Netherlands finished third. Both teams will now head into their final preparations for the ICC Women's T20 World Cup, which begins on June 12.
— ANI
Reader Comments
Honestly, this shows the depth in women's cricket now. From Bangladesh to Scotland to Netherlands, the competition is getting tighter. But rain reduced it to 8 overs? That's almost like a lottery. Would have loved to see a full 20-over contest to truly judge the teams. Still, Dilara's innings was world-class.
Fastest fifty for Bangladesh women's cricket! That's a big achievement. And 8 fours and 2 sixes in 26 balls – pure power hitting! 🔥 With the World Cup starting on June 12, this is a great confidence booster for the Tigresses. Hope they carry this form into the main tournament.
Shoutout to Fariha Trisna for bringing Bangladesh back into the game! Two crucial wickets in the fifth over changed the momentum completely. And Ritu Moni in the final over – that's how you defend a small total. Team effort, not just one player. Well played, Bangladesh! 💪
Good to see women's cricket getting more coverage. In India, we love our cricket, but the women's game needs more attention from the media and fans. Dilara's record shows talent is everywhere. Also, Scotland finishing on top of the tri-series is impressive for a non-Test playing nation. 👏
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