In a low-scoring encounter at Mirpur’s Shere Bangla National Stadium, Bangladesh defeated Ireland by five wickets. With this win, Bangladesh have taken an unassailable 2-0 lead in the three-match series, marking another dominant performance.
Bangladesh restricts Ireland for just 193
Ireland, having elected to bat first, managed to post only 193 runs for the loss of 6 wickets in their stipulated 50 overs. Amy Hunter stood out for the visitors, playing a composed innings of 68 runs off 88 balls, studded with eight boundaries. She was well-supported by Orla Prendergast (37 off 72) and Laura Delany (33 off 50), who helped stabilize the innings after a shaky start. The lower-order contributions from Una Raymond Hoey (21 off 18) added crucial runs in the death overs.
Bangladesh’s bowlers were disciplined, with Sultana Khatun leading the attack. She claimed 2/32 in her 10 overs, effectively stifling Ireland’s momentum. Nahida Akter chipped in with 1/32 from her full quota, while Shorna Akter’s tidy spell of 4 overs for 6 runs and a wicket proved pivotal in keeping the visitors in check.
Also READ: Ireland tour of Bangladesh 2024 – Broadcast, live streaming details & schedule | When and Where to watch in India, Bangladesh & Ireland
Bangladesh finishes the chase in 43.5 overs
Chasing 194 for victory, Bangladesh’s innings was anchored by opener Fargana Hoque, who played a steady knock of 50 runs off 89 balls. Her innings, laced with six boundaries, provided the platform for the chase. Sharmin Akhter contributed a valuable 43 off 63, adding stability to the innings after the early dismissal of Murshida Khatun for just six runs.
Skipper Nigar Sultana then took charge, scoring a brisk 40 off 39 balls, including a six and four boundaries. Her intent and aggression shifted the momentum in Bangladesh’s favour. Shorna Akter’s unbeaten 29 off 29 balls provided the finishing touches, ensuring Bangladesh crossed the target comfortably in 43.5 overs.
Ireland’s bowlers tried their best to defend the total, with Laura Delany standing out, claiming 2/43 in 6.5 overs. Prendergast (1/10) Ava Canning (1/22) and Arlene Kelly (1/34) also picked up wickets, but their efforts were not enough to derail the hosts’ chase.
Bangladesh defeated Ireland by 5 wickets in the 2nd ODI 🏏#women #cricket #BANvIRE #Bangladesh #CricketTwitter #WomenCricket pic.twitter.com/DEGUSjk6WA
— WomenCricket.com (@WomenCricketHQ) November 30, 2024
So far, Bangladesh have dominated the series, winning the first ODI by a massive margin of 154 runs and now sealing the second game with a five-wicket victory.
The third and final ODI, scheduled for December 2 at the same venue, will present Ireland an opportunity to salvage pride and end the series on a high note. Meanwhile, Bangladesh will aim for a clean sweep to further solidify their standing in the ICC Women’s Championship.
