Guwahati, Oct 9 (UNI) Tomorrow at Barsapara Cricket Stadium, the ICC Women’s World Cup 2025 delivers a crucial clash as New Zealand Women take on Bangladesh Women.
With both sides desperate for momentum, this fixture promises tension, flair, and a test of composure under pressure.
New Zealand have endured a nightmare start to their campaign, losing their opening two matches to Australia and South Africa. The White Ferns, known for their experience and class, are at the bottom of the table with zero points and a negative net run rate.
Bangladesh, sitting fifth with two points from two matches, arrive on the back of a strong win over Pakistan and a competitive defeat to England. Both teams see this match as pivotal in keeping semifinal hopes alive.
The White Ferns’ top order remains their best weapon. Suzie Bates continues to show her class, Amelia Kerr provides solidity in the middle, and Sophie Devine injects aggression when needed.
However, inconsistency in the middle order and a lack of breakthroughs from the bowlers have cost them so far. In the game against South Africa, the top order fought valiantly, but the middle order failed to capitalise, leaving their bowlers with too much to defend.
Predicted XI: Suzie Bates, Bernadine Bezuidenhout (wk), Sophie Devine (c), Amelia Kerr, Maddy Green, Brooke Halliday, Jess Kerr, Hannah Rowe, Lea Tahuhu, Eden Carson, Fran Jonas
Bangladesh have impressed with disciplined bowling and sharp fielding. Captain Nigar Sultana has led from the front, while Nahida Akter has been key with the ball. Their batting depth remains a concern, but Murshida Khatun and Sobhana Mostary have shown the ability to anchor innings under pressure. The team thrives on building partnerships and applying pressure through consistent bowling.
Predicted XI: Fargana Haque, Murshida Khatun, Sobhana Mostary, Nigar Sultana (c & wk), Fahima Khatun, Lata Mondal, Ritu Moni, Nahida Akter, Rabeya Khatun, Marufa Akter, Fariha Trisna
While New Zealand have beaten Bangladesh in their last five WODIs, history counts for little in tournaments where form fluctuates. New Zealand have lost their last three consecutive matches overall, while Bangladesh are coming off a mixed run with a win and a defeat.
Barsapara pitch is expected to favour batswomen early, with high-scoring conditions predicted. Toss-winning captains are likely to bat first to take advantage of the early momentum and scoreboard pressure. Light winds from the east-southeast and no significant rain forecast make for near-perfect playing conditions. The pitch is expected to offer average turn for spinners as the match progresses, making tactical bowling crucial.
Expect a close encounter. If New Zealand’s top order fires, they have the firepower to post or chase a competitive total. Bangladesh, however, will look to exploit any early vulnerability in the middle order and use their disciplined bowling to apply scoreboard pressure.
Semifinal hopes hang in the balance, giving this match an edge-of-the-seat intensity. Experts predict New Zealand to edge Bangladesh in a tight contest, but the game could swing either way depending on early wickets and partnerships.
With both teams fighting for crucial points in the middle phase of the tournament, tomorrow’s clash is more than just another match, it’s a test of nerves, strategy, and the ability to perform under pressure. Expect high drama, key individual performances, and a result that could significantly shape the semifinal race.
