Juairiya repays faith with match-winning fifty

Bangladesh opener Juairiya Ferdous justified her selection in the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup squad with a scintillating half-century as her side secured a six-wicket victory over the Netherlands in their Group A opener in Birmingham on Sunday.

The 20-year-old, picked largely for her aggressive intent at the top of the order, delivered exactly what the team management expected, smashing 50 off just 33 balls with seven fours and two sixes to set up Bangladesh’s successful chase of 140.

Juairiya laid the foundation with an explosive 67-run opening partnership with Dilara Akter in just 7.4 overs, giving Bangladesh early control of the chase. It was her second half-century in T20 internationals and a timely response after managing only 47 runs in four innings during the preceding tri-series in Scotland.

“It's my first World Cup. First match today. Pitch was very flat and target was 140. Opening batters have to use the powerplay fully so I tried my best,” Juairiya said after the match.

“I can't explain this feeling (of scoring a fifty). Big achievement for me and my team. All officials, all players, my captain, coaches have always supported me and believed in me.”

She rode her luck at times and survived a heart-in-mouth moment when the TV umpire deemed Robine Rijke’s fingers weren’t underneath the ball as she claimed a chance at deep midwicket.

Juairiya made the most of that lifeline, targeting the deep midwicket region and striking the ball ferociously hard.

Although Juairiya departed soon after reaching her milestone, Bangladesh suffered no further setbacks as Sharmin Akhter Supta and Shorna Akter guided the team home with an unbroken 56-run partnership for the fifth wicket. Sharmin remained unbeaten on 37 while Shorna contributed 18 not out as Bangladesh reached 140-4 with five balls to spare.

The victory was only Bangladesh’s fourth in Women’s T20 World Cup history and provided an ideal start to their campaign.

Captain Nigar Sultana Joty praised her team’s composure and highlighted Juairiya’s impact at the top of the order.

“The way Juairiya played, she was enjoying herself and Dilara was helping her a lot. There was a bit of drama later on, but Sharmin held her nerve and Shorna was there as well. They finished the game, so we are happy,” Joty said.

Bangladesh will next face Australia in their second Group A fixture at Headingley in Leeds on Wednesday.