**WODI World Cup: South Africa Beat Bangladesh Despite Middle-Order Collapse**
*By Parth Dhall | October 13, 2025, 10:21 PM*

In Match 14 of the 2025 ICC Women’s ODI World Cup at the ACA-VDCA Cricket Stadium in Visakhapatnam, South Africa secured a thrilling three-wicket victory over Bangladesh despite a middle-order collapse.

**Bangladesh Post a Competitive Total**

Electing to bat first, Bangladesh began cautiously but steadily. Openers Fargana Hoque and Rubya Haider built a solid 53-run opening partnership. However, progress was slow, with Bangladesh reaching the 100-run mark only after 30 overs and having played 126 dot balls by that stage.

Middle-order batter Sharmin Akhter played a key role, joining hands with captain Nigar Sultana to push the total forward. Sharmin completed her half-century off 74 balls, helping Bangladesh reach 150 runs in 40 overs. The partnership ended with the dismissal of Sultana.

**Final Overs Surge from Bangladesh**

As the innings progressed, Bangladesh faced a collapse when Sharmin was run out in the 43rd over. Following this, Sobhana Mostary and Rabeya Khan were dismissed in quick succession, leaving Bangladesh struggling at 195/6.

However, Shorna Akter provided a vital late surge alongside Ritu Moni (19* off 8 balls). Shorna remained unbeaten on 51 off 35 deliveries, hitting three fours and three sixes, guiding Bangladesh to a competitive total of 232/6.

**Key Player Performances**

Sharmin Akhter marked her 50th WODI appearance by scoring her ninth half-century in the format. She now has 1,222 runs from 49 innings at an average of 25.45. This innings was her maiden half-century in a WODI World Cup.

Shorna Akter, too, celebrated her maiden half-century in WODI cricket. She has accumulated 216 runs from 22 matches at an average of 16.61.

**South Africa’s Recovery and Win**

In response, South Africa’s innings faltered early, slipping to 78/5. The middle order struggled until experienced players Marizanne Kapp and Chloe Tryon combined to add a crucial 85 runs, stabilizing the chase.

Their partnership laid the foundation for South Africa’s eventual three-wicket victory over Bangladesh.

**Historical Context**

According to ESPNcricinfo, this win marked South Africa’s 19th WODI victory against Bangladesh, who have only managed three wins over South Africa in this format. This also marks South Africa’s second consecutive win against Bangladesh in the ongoing WODI World Cup.

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South Africa’s resilience under pressure proved decisive in this match, making it a memorable contest of the 2025 ICC Women’s ODI World Cup.
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