Moni, Sharmin help Bangladesh register maiden ODI win against Sri Lanka

Sharmin Akhter starred with a brilliant 86 as Bangladesh secured a historic three-wicket win over Sri Lanka women's national cricket team in the first Women’s ODI, registering their maiden victory against the island side. The match, held in Rajshahi, also marked the venue’s debut as an international host.

Chasing 206, Bangladesh appeared in full control before a dramatic late collapse nearly derailed their effort. With just seven runs needed, they lost four wickets for a single run, triggered by Sharmin’s dismissal in the 45th over. The right-hander was stumped for 86 off 127 balls, an innings studded with 13 boundaries and her highest score against Sri Lanka.

Sharmin had earlier anchored the chase through crucial partnerships, including a 78-run stand with Shorna Akter for the fourth wicket. However, Sri Lanka clawed back through offspinner Dewmi Vihanga, who struck twice in the 46th over, dismissing Shorna (35) and Ritu Moni in quick succession. Another setback followed when Rabeya Khan fell cheaply, leaving Bangladesh at 200 for 7.

Lower-order batters Nahida Akter and Sultana Khatun then held their nerve to guide the hosts home. Sri Lanka faltered in the closing moments, with Malki Madara conceding a wide and a costly misfield that allowed the winning runs.

Earlier, Bangladesh’s chase had a shaky start, losing Sharmin Sultana for a duck in the opening over. Debutant Juairiya Ferdous also fell cheaply, while captain Nigar Sultana departed with the score at 34 for 3.

Sharmin then rebuilt the innings alongside Sobhana Mostary, adding 87 runs for the fourth wicket. Mostary contributed 41 before being forced to retire hurt due to severe cramps.

Sri Lanka, batting first, made a strong start through stand-in captain Hasini Perera and Imesha Dulani, who put on 68 for the opening stand. Ritu Moni broke the partnership and went on to remove Harshitha Samarawickrama soon after.

Dulani scored a fluent 54, while Hansima Karunaratne added another 54 as the pair stitched together a 52-run stand. However, Sri Lanka lost momentum in the latter stages, with wickets falling in clusters.

Bangladesh’s bowlers, led by Ritu Moni (3 for 36) and Nahida Akter (two wickets), ensured Sri Lanka were restricted to a manageable total.

Despite the late jitters, Bangladesh held on to seal a landmark win, underlining their growing stature in women’s cricket.