Devine, Halliday hand New Zealand first win at Women’s World Cup

GUWAHATI: Skipper Sophie Devine’s and Brooke Halliday’s composed half-centuries, followed by a clinical bowling performance, sealed a comprehensive 100-run victory over Bangladesh in the ICC Women’s World Cup here at the Barsapara Cricket Stadium on Friday.

Set 229, Bangladesh were bowled out for a mere 127 in 39.5 overs.

New Zealand inflicted a poor start on Bangladesh as they removed openers Rubya Haider and Sharmin Akhter for four and three runs respectively.

The early wickets did not allow Bangladesh’s middle-order batters to settle as BlackCaps bowlers cut through the batting lineup.

Fahima Khatun top-scored with 34 from 80 balls with the help of two fours. She was the highlight of Bangladesh’s innings, adding a string of partnerships later down the order, which helped them cross the 100-run mark.

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Eventually, New Zealand bowled them out for a modest score, resulting in their first victory of the tournament.

For the Blackcaps, Jess Kerr and Lea Tahuhu picked up three wickets each.

Earlier, after opting to bat first, New Zealand posted 227-9 in their 50 overs, thanks to Devine and Halliday’s 112-run partnership for the fourth wicket.

Bangladesh kept it tight from the start, leaving them reeling at 38-3 in 11 overs. However, the duo’s partnership drove New Zealand and helped them reach a respectable total.

Devine made 63 from 85, striking two sixes and two fours, whereas Halliday struck five fours and a six on her way to 69 from 104 balls.

For Bangladesh, Rabeya Khan remained the standout bowler, picking up three wickets in her quota of 10 overs while giving away 30 runs.

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