Bangladesh Fall to Pakistan, World Cup Hopes Rest on West Indies

Bangladesh’s chances of direct qualification to the ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup took a significant hit on Saturday, as they were defeated by Pakistan by seven wickets. The result now leaves their hopes of advancing dependent on the outcome of the final group-stage match between West Indies and Thailand.

Set a target of 179, Pakistan easily chased down the total with 62 balls to spare, thanks to a solid 69 from Player of the Match Muneeba Ali and an unbeaten 52 from Aliya Riaz. Despite an early breakthrough by Marufa Akter, Bangladesh’s bowlers struggled to control Pakistan’s batting on a flat Sylhet pitch.

Earlier, Bangladesh’s top order faltered once again after choosing to bat first. Farzana Hoque was dismissed without scoring, and captain Nigar Sultana only managed one run. At 21 for 3, Bangladesh’s innings was in turmoil before Ritu Moni (48) and Fahima Khatun (44*) fought back to help the team post 178 for 9. However, it wasn’t enough against a disciplined Pakistani side.

Pakistan’s spinners dominated the match, with Sadia Iqbal claiming 3 for 28, and Rameen Shamim, Diana Baig, and Fatima Sana sharing the remaining wickets. Bangladesh now sits second in the points table with six points from five matches, but their net run rate of 0.639 puts them at risk.

If West Indies defeat Thailand by a large margin in their final match, they could overtake Bangladesh based on net run rate and claim the second qualifying spot behind unbeaten Pakistan. The West Indies, currently in fourth with four points and a net run rate of -0.283, will need a big win to close the gap. Thailand, yet to win a match in the tournament, will ultimately decide Bangladesh's fate.

With Bangladesh now spectators, all eyes are on the West Indies–Thailand match. A dominant performance from the West Indies will dash Bangladesh’s World Cup dreams, ending what began as a promising campaign on a painful note.