Women's T20 WC: Bangladesh elect to bat against Pakistan in must-win clash
Southampton, June 20
Bangladesh won the toss and opted to bat against Pakistan first in a must-win Group A match in the ICC Women's T20 World Cup 2026 at the Hampshire Bowl in Southampton on Saturday. Both teams have had a poor start in the tournament and will be hoping to bounce back into the reckoning.
Bangladesh Women's captain Nigar Sultana Joty said they will try to post a big score. She said the WC is a bit hectic, but they are trying to adjust. She further says that they had a lot of fun on their bus while coming, and ends by mentioning the changes on their side.
"Looking at the first game, we want to put some runs on the board," said Nigar Sultana. "It's a very hectic schedule, and we are not getting time to adapt. We want to put up a good score."
Pakistan captain Fatima Sana said that though it looks like a batting pitch, they are keen to restrict Bangladesh to below 150. "We need to be more disciplined in the field," said Fatima, who was non-committal on whether she would bat higher in the order in this match after scoring a fifty and claiming three wickets in their previous match.
Though Pakistan hold an overall advantage in the head-to-head series by winning 16 of their 20 clashes, Bangladesh has scored three wins in their last four matches, which gives them hope of causing an upset on Saturday.
Playing XIs:
Bangladesh: Juairiya Ferdous, Dilara Akter, Sharmin Akhter, Nigar Sultana (C & WK), Sobhana Mostary, Shorna Akter, Ritu Moni, Rabeya Khan, Nahida Akter, Marufa Akter, Sanjida Akter Meghla.
Pakistan: Gull Feroza, Muneeba Ali (WK), Ayesha Zafar, Iram Javed, Saira Jabeen, Aliya Riaz, Fatima Sana (C), Tuba Hassan, Tasmia Rubab, Nashra Sundhu, Sadia Iqbal.
— IANS
Reader Comments
The head-to-head record might favor Pakistan, but Bangladesh's recent form is more important. I hope they put up a good fight! The bus fun comment from Nigar Sultana was cute - these players are under so much pressure, nice to see them enjoying the tournament too.
Both teams need to step up their game. The schedule is indeed hectic - these women are playing almost back-to-back matches. But that's what makes T20 cricket so exciting! Hoping for a close contest and some brilliant performances from both sides.
Happy to see Bangladesh women's cricket growing! In India, we've seen how our women's team has inspired millions. I hope Bangladesh's recent wins over Pakistan continue today - would be great for the sport in the subcontinent! 😊
Honestly, I think both teams have been underperforming. The schedule complaint is fair, but other teams are managing. Bangladesh needs to work on their batting depth - that lineup looks a bit thin. Pakistan's bowling looks stronger, but let's see if they can defend or chase well today.
I've been following the Women's T20 WC from the UK - it's wonderful to see teams from Asia competing. Bangladesh's improvement is impressive, and Pakistan's Fatima Sana looks like a genuine all-rounder. Should be a good match regardless of who wins!
We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.