Tigresses underwhelm against Pakistan in warm-up encounter

Bangladesh suffered a convincing six-wicket defeat in their first warm-up fixture against Pakistan in Cape Town today ahead of the ICC Women's T20 World Cup 2023.

Pakistan breezed past Bangladesh's 101-run total with four overs to spare.

Electing to bat, the Nigar Sultana Joty-led side struggled to get going in South African conditions. Once experienced all-rounder Salma Khatun departed inside fourth over, Bangladesh batters looked to create the platform for some rear-guard action. Courtesy of opener Sobhana Mostary (18) and Shamima Sultana (36) combining for the innings' highest stand of 38 runs for the first wicket, the Tigresses were 70 for two in 13.1 overs but could not up the ante in the remaining overs.

In reply, Marufa Akter took two early wickets and had Pakistan in a spot of bother, at 24 inside the fifth over. However, Pakistan captain Bismah Maroof's 24 and two unbeaten and aggressive 24 and 20 from Nida Dar and Ayesha Naseem, respectively, ensured they cruised to a comfortable victory in the end.    

Up next, the Tigresses are set to play India in their second and final warm-up game on Wednesday before making their fifth appearance in the showpiece event when they take on Sri Lanka in their opening fixture on February 12.