A strong all-round performance from New Zealand secured them a convincing 100-run victory over Bangladesh in the ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup 2025. Key contributions from Sophie Devine and Brooke Halliday with the bat, and a disciplined bowling display, paved the way for the White Ferns’ first win of the competition.
Batting first, New Zealand faced early adversity, losing three wickets for only 35 runs. However, the experienced Sophie Devine and the in-form Brooke Halliday came to the rescue, forging a vital 112-run partnership. Halliday top-scored with a patient 69, while Devine added 63, providing the backbone for New Zealand’s eventual total of 227/9. Late hitting from the lower order added valuable runs to the scoreboard.
Bangladesh’s bowlers showed glimpses of their potential, with Rabeya Khan being particularly effective, picking up three wickets for 30 runs. However, they couldn’t contain New Zealand for the full 50 overs.
In their pursuit of 228, Bangladesh’s batting line-up crumbled against a potent New Zealand attack. Rosemary Mair and Jess Kerr started strongly with the ball, taking early wickets. Despite a lone fight from Fahima Khatun (34), Bangladesh was bowled out for 127 in the 40th over. Jess Kerr and Lea Tahuhu delivered exceptional spells, taking three wickets each, while Mair also chipped in with two. This clinical bowling effort sealed a comprehensive victory for New Zealand, boosting their morale in the tournament.