Despite a valiant 63-run knock from skipper Nigar Sultana, Bangladesh women's team suffered a thumping 10-wicket defeat to Australia in the three-match Twenty20 International series opener Sunday at Sher-e-Bangla National Cricket Stadium.
Thanks to Nigar's solo battle, Bangladesh posted 126/4 after electing to bat first but that total was not enough against a ruthless side like Australia, who hunted it down in just 13 overs, reaching 127 for no loss.
Captain Alyssa Healy led the charge with a 42-ball 65, an innings laced with nine fours and one six.
Her fellow opener Beth Mooney was unbeaten on 55 after playing 36 deliveries as she sent the ball across the ropes nine times.
Bangladesh made a disastrous start when Dilara Akter got out to a first-ball-duck and Sobhana Mostary was dismissed for an eight-ball-duck, which left them struggling at two for two in the second over.
Nigar steadied the ship with Murshida Khatun who made 20.
However after Murshida's dismissal, Nigar found support from Fahima Khatun, who added a rapid 27.
Nigar remained not out on 63 off 64 after hitting seven fours.
The second and third T20I are slated for Tuesday and Thursday.
Earlier, Australia whitewashed Bangladesh in the three-match One Day International series.
1ST T20I
Bangladesh women 126/4 (Nigar 63*, Fahima 27) lost to Australia women 127/0 in 13 overs (Healy 65*, Mooney 55*) by 10 wickets
