Despite defending a low total, Bangladesh put up a brave fight but eventually came up short against Australia in the Under-19 Women’s Twenty20 World Cup in Bangi, Malaysia Monday.
After being asked to bat first, the young Tigresses were restricted to 91 runs for the loss of nine wickets, with only two batters reaching double digit – Afia Ashima (29) and opener Sumaiya Akter (13) – and extras contributing 14, including 13 wides.
In reply, the Aussies too lost wickets at regular intervals in the Group D fixture and only reached their destination in the second delivery of the final over, losing eight wickets.
In the inaugural edition of the tournament two years ago in South Africa, the young girls in red and green had pulled off a stunning win against the Aussies however this time, the latter had the last laugh, but only just by two wickets with four balls to spare.
Skipper Lucy Hamilton top-scored with 30.
For the Bangladesh bowlers, Jannatul Mawa (3/15) was again among the wickets like their opening match victory against Nepal.
Despite the loss, Bangladesh are well on their way to the Super Six where they will come up against Group A sides India, Sri Lanka, the West Indies or hosts Malaysia.
The young Tigresses will conclude their group phase campaign Wednesday against Scotland at the same venue.
9TH MATCH
Bangladesh U-19 women 91/9 (Afia 29, Tegan 2/12) lost to Australia U-19 women 92/8 in 19.2 overs (Hamilton 30, Mawa 3/15) by 2 wickets