Joty and Co upbeat for direct World Cup berth

"Our ODI team look very strong," claimed Bangladesh opener Fargana Hoque, who was adjudged player of the series, after her side's comprehensive seven-wicket victory against Ireland in the third and final Women's ODI in Mirpur yesterday.

There was hardly any doubt that the Tigresses have evolved in the series, whitewashing the visitors on their way to brightening their chance for direct qualification in next year's ICC Women's World Cup in India.

Showcasing a spirited display, Nigar Sultana Joty's team put aside all the pre-series fears. There had been doubt over whether the home side -- who had lost all three ODIs they had played before, against Australia in March -- would be able to get the maximum six points against a side that came here with triumphs over England and Sri Lanka.

However, a much-improved batting performance saw them clinch a second clean sweep in a three-match WODI series since Zimbabwe 2021 in Bulawayo. Opener Fargana and No. 3 batter Sharmin Akhter Supta, who made 172 and 211 runs in the series, respectively, made a strong statement.

"We always talk about our batting. So far in the series, I think they have been doing well, and our top order is also getting runs. Bowlers have also done well, so it was a wonderful series," said Joty during a post-match presentation.

With India having already gained direct entry by virtue of being hosts, and Australia, England, and South Africa already booking their places from the IWC points table, Bangladesh will now have to fight against three teams – Sri Lanka (22 points from 24 matches), New Zealand (20 points from 21 matches), and West Indies (14 points from 18 matches) – in order to be one of the last two teams to make direct qualification for the 50-over event.

"See, we had a very good series. We want to carry it forward to the West Indies series as well. We don't want to play the qualifier to play the ODI World Cup. Each and every one wants to play the World Cup directly," said a confident Joty.

"Of course, we are hopeful," Fargana also echoed the sentiment of her captain.