Junior Tigresses beat Australia for historical victory in ICC U-19 T20 WC

Bangladesh Women's Under-19 made an epic start in the first ever ICC Under-19 Twenty20 World Cup, crushing mighty Australia by 7 wickets at Benoni in South Africa on Saturday. 

Dilara Akter, the wicket-keeper batter was instrumental in the landmark victory, hitting a 42 ball-40 runs knock that included seven fours. Thanks to her serene innings, Bangladesh reached the victory target with 132-3, overhauling Australia's 130-5.

But Bangladesh made a disastrous start, losing opener Misty Shaha in the first ball of the innings. Dilara then took the anchor role and rescued Bangladesh from the precarious state, ably supported by Afia Prottasha who scored 24 off 22 with two fours and two sixes.

Australia's Chloes Ainsworth broke the partnership with the wicket of Dilara but not before then the batter paved Bangladesh's platform of a historical victory.

The rest was done by Shorna Akter and Sumaiya Akter who utilized the platform set by Dilara well to add an 61-run for the unbeaten fourth wicket stand as Bangladesh women's team won their first match against Australia in any format of the cricket at any level.

Claire Moore earlier helped Australia recover from a shaky start to post a good total on the board, hitting 51 ball-52, an innings studded with seven fours. Australia lost two openers in fourth over with 22 runs on the board.

Ella Hayward was the other notable scorer with 35 and shared 76-run with Moore to set the tune. But despite their effort, Australia lost the match as Bangladesh girls came up with more spirited show.

Marufa Akter and Disha Biswas took two wickets apiece. Bangladesh will take on Sri Lanka in their next match on Monday.

Source: BSS