Dhaka: Bangladesh Women's team clinched the three-match ODI series against Ireland by securing a five-wicket victory in the second match at Sher-e-Bangla National Cricket Stadium. Opting to bat first, Ireland posted a total of 193-6, which Bangladesh successfully chased down in 43.5 overs, finishing at 197-5. According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, opener Fargana Hoque Pinky was instrumental in the chase with a 50 off 89 balls, including six fours. Sharmin Akhter Supta, who had previously scored an impressive 96 in the first ODI, contributed 43 runs. Skipper Nigar Sultana Joty further propelled the team with a quick 40 off 39 balls, featuring four fours and a six. Shorna Akter, remaining unbeaten on a run-a-ball 29, sealed the victory with a boundary. Bangladesh began their innings with the loss of opener Murshida Khatun for six runs. However, Fargana and Supta stabilized the innings with an 85-run partnership for the second wicket. Laura Delany's breakthrough led to a brief collapse, with Bangladesh losi ng three wickets for 29 runs. Joty and Shorna then anchored the innings, sharing a 53-run stand for the fifth wicket, bringing Bangladesh within reach of victory. Despite Joty's dismissal by Arlene Kelly, Shorna ensured a smooth finish for the team. Ireland, who struggled in the first ODI with a total of 98 runs, showed improvement with captain Amy Hunter scoring 68. She received support from Orla Prendergast and Laura Delany, who added 37 and 33 runs respectively. Bangladesh's bowling attack was led by Sultana Khatun with two wickets, while Nahida Akter and Shorna Akter claimed one wicket each. Despite securing the series win, Bangladesh aims to win the final ODI against Ireland and all upcoming matches against West Indies to secure direct qualification for the ICC Women's Cricket World Cup in India next year.
