NZ W VS BAN W MATCH 11

New Zealand and Bangladesh meet in Guwahati, with both sides searching for momentum in the middle phase of the 2025 ICC Women’s ODI World Cup. For New Zealand, the tournament has started on a disappointing note with back-to-back defeats against Australia and South Africa. Bangladesh, meanwhile, have shown flashes of promise, upsetting Pakistan in their opener before falling short against England. With semi-final hopes still alive, this clash carries extra weight for both teams. The White Ferns have struggled to put together a complete performance so far. Sophie Devines’s fighting 112 against Australia and her 85 against South Africa were positives, but the other batters have failed to make much impact. Their bowlers, led by Lea Tahuhu, have worked hard but lacked the breakthroughs at crucial times from, the other bowlers. Bangladesh, on the other hand, have impressed with their discipline and energy. Their victory over Pakistan was built on Nigar Sultana’s calm leadership and Nahida Akter’s incisive bowling, while against England they showed fight with the ball before their batting fell short. Sobhana Mostary offered resistance, but the team will need greater depth and consistency in their batting to challenge stronger opponents. The knock of 43 from just 27 balls from Rabeya Khatum towards the end was also a bright spot for the Bangladesh Women. This contest promises to be a test of resilience. New Zealand will look to their experienced top and middle order to set the tone and their spinners to exploit the conditions, while Bangladesh will rely on their sharp fielding and organized bowling to stay competitive. With both teams eyeing their first step toward a semi-final push, the side that handles pressure better and finds balance between bat and ball is likely to come out on top.