Bangladesh Emerging Women Secure Final ODI Win Against South Africa

Bangladesh Emerging Women Deny SA Emerging a Whitewash in Final ODI Thriller

A Hard-Fought Finale in Chattogram

On Sunday, May 11, 2025, at the Bir Sreshtho Flight Lieutenant Matiur Rahman Stadium in Chattogram, the Bangladesh Emerging Women’s team showcased resilience and determination to clinch a 14-run victory over the South Africa Emerging Women in the final match of their three-game One Day International (ODI) series. Despite the loss, South Africa secured the series 2-1, having won the first two encounters.

Bangladesh's Batting Resurgence

Opting to bat first after winning the toss, Bangladesh faced early setbacks, losing openers Dilara Dola (1) and captain Sarmin Sultana (5) within the first four overs, courtesy of South Africa's Delmi Tucker (2/39). However, a stabilizing 87-run partnership between Ishma Tanjim (57 off 83 balls) and Sumaiya Akter (38) brought the innings back on track. Subsequent contributions from Rubya Jhilik (34), Afia Era (44), and an unbeaten 41 from Shorna Akter propelled Bangladesh to a competitive total of 253/8 in their allotted 50 overs.

South Africa's Valiant Chase Falls Short

In response, South Africa's innings began promisingly with a 97-run opening stand between Nicole de Klerk (42) and Simone Lourens (68 off 63 balls). However, the middle order struggled to maintain momentum against Bangladesh's disciplined bowling attack. Faye Tunnicliffe's 55 and Eliz-Mari Marx's 34 offered hope, but the visitors were eventually bowled out for 239 in 49.4 overs, falling 14 runs short of the target.

Standout Performances and Series Highlights

Simone Lourens' debut innings of 68 was a highlight for South Africa, while Faye Tunnicliffe's consistent performances earned her the Player of the Series accolade. For Bangladesh, Ishma Tanjim's anchoring half-century and Shorna Akter's all-round contributions were instrumental in their victory.

Looking Ahead: The T20 Series

With the ODI series concluded, both teams now shift focus to the upcoming three-match T20 series, commencing on Wednesday, May 14, at the Cox’s Bazar Academy Ground. The series promises to be an exciting contest as both sides aim to build on their experiences and showcase emerging talent in the shorter format.