Bangladesh women's U-19 team made an epic start in the first ever U-19 Twenty20 World Cup, crushing mighty Australia by seven wickets in Benoni, South Africa Saturday.
Dilara Akter, the wicketkeeper-batter, was instrumental in the landmark victory, hitting a 42-ball 40-run knock that included seven fours.
Thanks to her serene innings, Bangladesh reached the target with 132/3, overhauling Australia's 130/5.
But Bangladesh made a disastrous start, losing opener Misty Shaha in the first ball of the innings.
Dilara then took on the anchor role and rescued Bangladesh from the precarious state, ably supported by Afia Prottasha who scored 24 off 22 with two fours and as many sixes.
Australia's Chloes Ainsworth broke the partnership with the wicket of Dilara but not before the batter paved Bangladesh's platform for a historical victory.
The rest was done by Shorna Akter and Sumaiya Akter who utilized the platform set by Dilara well to add 61 for the unbroken fourth wicket stand as a Bangladesh women's team won their first match against Australia in any format at any level.
Claire Moore earlier helped Australia recover from a shaky start to post a good total on the board, scoring 51 ball-52, an innings studded with seven fours.
Australia lost two openers inside four overs with 22 runs on the board.
Ella Hayward was the other notable scorer with 35 and shared 76 alongside Moore to set the tune.
But despite their effort, Australia lost the match as Bangladesh girls came up with a more spirited show.
Marufa Akter and Disha Biswas took two wickets apiece.
Bangladesh will take on Sri Lanka in their next match this Monday.
1ST MATCH
Australia women 130/5 in 20 overs (Claire 52, Disha 2/25) lost to Bangladesh women 132/3 in 18 overs (Dilara 40, Sumaiya 31*) by seven wickets
