Tigresses start with a defeat

Bangladesh yesterday marked their debut in the ICC Women's Cricket World Cup in Dunedin with a 32-run defeat to South Africa as their bowlers' brilliant efforts were undone by a brilliant spell from Ayabonga Khaka.

Khaka's match-winning four for 32 included a spell of three wickets in nine balls. She also put the clamps on Bangladesh and ensured her side were able to defend a modest 207.

After impressive bowling performances from Fariha Trisna, who was the pick of the Bangladesh bowlers with three for 35, Jahanara Alam (two for 28) and Ritu Moni (three for 36), the Tigresses got off a perfect start in their innings courtesy of openers Shamima Sultana (28) and Sharmin Akhter (34).

The openers reached 69 without loss, but Khaka's timely intervention reduced the score to 72 for three with wickets falling in quick succession and the required run-rate continuing to rise.

Nigar Sultana (29) and Ritu Moni (27) put on 53 for the seventh wicket but the required run-rate continued to grow and Bangladesh were eventually bowled out for 175 in the final over.

Bangladesh will play their second match against New Zealand tomorrow.