Bangladesh women’s national team sealed a series win against Zimbabwe on Saturday as they beat the hosts by nine wickets in the second one-day international in Bulawayo to take an unassailable 2-0 lead in the three-match series.
Bangladesh bowled Zimbabwe out for 121 in their first innings before chasing it down with nine wickets and 25.3 overs in hand, courtesy of fifties from Murshida Khatun and Fargana Hoque.
Despite getting bowled out for just 48 in the first match, Zimbabwe skipper Mary-Anne Musonda opted to bat first after winning the toss.
Bangladesh were still without the services of skipper NIgar Sultana Joty, who is suffering from a finger injury. Fahima Khatun deputised for her.
The Zimbabweans put in a better performance as they managed to reach three figures this time, with Nyasha Gwanzura top-scoring with 35.
But a collective effort from the Bangladesh bowlers meant the hosts were bowled out for just 121. Nahida Akter picked up three wickets with Jahanara Alam and Salma Khatun picking up a couple each. Skipper Fahima and Ritu Moni picked up a wicket each.
In reply, Bangladesh lost the opener, Sharmin Akhter, early on but an unbeaten 115-run stand between Murshida and Fargana meant that Bangladesh sealed the series with ease.
Murshida, who picked up her fifty of 63 balls, stayed unbeaten on 51, whereas Fargana, picking up her fifty of 68 deliveries, stayed unbeaten on 53.
Bangladesh will play the final match of the series on Monday at the same venue.s
