‘Must credit the fight shown’

Often, the effort a team show in a competitive match can outweigh the final result. The Tigresses' determined performances against England and South Africa in the ongoing ICC Women's World Cup, following a crucial opening win over Pakistan, highlight the significance of their fight, as it will strengthen the team for future challenges.

After a three-wicket, last-over loss to South Africa in Vizag on Monday, most players were left in tears in the dressing room, but the camp's mood had brightened by the next day following retrospection. The fight shown would help build morale.

"They gave hundred and ten percent effort… to come out of it in the very next match shows their determination. During the bad times, everyone sticks together… the way they played is of international standard and the effort will boost them going forward," batting coach Nasiruddin Faruque Shajib told The Daily Star yesterday.

The dew factor was significant against South Africa. Marufa Akter was not bowled as it became harder for the pacer to grip the ball than for some of the spinners. Fielding was where the Tigresses let themselves down, but despite the vital dropped catches, overall fielding standards have also improved.

"I can't really comment fully on the fielding… but even looking at how they coped with the dew factor, you must credit the fight shown," Shajib said.

Skipper Nigar Sultana Joty highlighted the lessons learned from a close game against a quality opponent after their latest match.

"There are many things to learn… what we should do to get the result in our favour if we find ourselves in this kind of situation in the next matches," she said.

Not only in lessons, the Tigresses are also discovering players who can establish themselves further in international cricket. Against the Proteas, Rabeya Khan's superb delivery to bowl Annerie Dercksen was a highlight, while Shorna Akter's innings shows her potential despite her youth. Shorna is just 18, while Rabeya and Marufa Akter, who dazzled in this tournament, are in their 20s.

"There is no doubt about their prospects… it will be some time before players of their quality arrive again. Shorna, Rabeya and many from their batch are players with potential and players for the future," Shajib said.