Pak-Bangla ODI Rivalry Rekindles at World Cup

News Desk 

Colombo: Bangladesh and Pakistan are set to face off in Colombo, with both sides looking to make a strong start at the Women’s World Cup. The two teams have split their last four ODIs 2-2, underlining just how evenly balanced this contest is. One of Bangladesh’s recent wins even went down to a Super Over.

Both nations took the Qualifier route to the tournament, meeting earlier this year in Lahore. On that occasion, Pakistan chased down 179 with Muneeba Ali, Sidra Amin, and Aliya Riaz all making key contributions – a trio that continues to form the backbone of their batting.

Sidra Amin has been in prolific form, registering two centuries against South Africa last month and ranking as the fifth-highest ODI run-scorer this year with an average of 86.33. Muneeba Ali (average 43 in 2024) and Aliya Riaz (average 50) have also been among the runs, though most of their big scores came against lower-ranked opposition. Pakistan will hope they can replicate that form on the World Cup stage.

Bangladesh, by contrast, enter the tournament short of recent ODI match practice. Since losing the Qualifier final in Lahore five months ago, they have not played a 50-over international. Their last series win came against Ireland at the end of 2023, but defeats to West Indies before that still linger.

The Tigresses’ traditional strength has been their bowling, though this year they also boast promising depth in their batting. Captain Nigar Sultana remains their most reliable performer, while opener Sharmin Akhter has impressed with an average of 50.85 in eight innings this year.

Bangladesh, however, will be without head coach Sarwar Imran on the sidelines, after he suffered a minor stroke in Colombo earlier this week. Skipper Nigar Sultana confirmed he is recovering well but will be focusing on his health during the tournament.

With both teams looking evenly matched on paper, Thursday’s contest promises to be a hard-fought battle as Pakistan aim to continue their momentum and Bangladesh seek to overcome rustiness.