Sunshine greeted the teams in Birmingham, and Babette de Leede made the most of the good luck at the toss. The Dutch skipper opted to bat first on their maiden appearance at a Women’s T20 World Cup, explaining afterward that her side hope to post something sizeable on a “flat wicket” with a “fast” outfield.
Both nations reached the main draw through the Nepal qualifiers earlier this year, so neither camp is short of recent pressure experience. De Leede confirmed an unchanged XI from that successful run, saying there was little point meddling with form players.
The surface is the same strip on which England piled up 219 against Sri Lanka two nights ago – still the highest total in the history of the tournament. Straight down the ground stretches to 70 metres, while the square boundaries are asymmetrical at 61 and 55 metres. Those numbers tempt batters, though the quick outfield also keeps bowlers interested if they hit a length.
Opposite number Nigar Sultana admitted she would have preferred to bat first as well, yet remained calm about chasing: she believes her seamers, led by teenager Marufa Akter, can apply early squeeze. “I wanted to bat first too,” she said, “but we trust our bowling attack to restrict Netherlands.”
Recent meetings back that confidence. In last month’s tri-series in Scotland, the sides shared one win apiece, and overall Bangladesh hold a 4-1 advantage. It is hardly decisive, but it does offer a little psychological edge to the Tigresses.
Teams
Bangladesh: Dilara Akter, Juairiya Ferdous, Sharmin Akhter, Nigar Sultana (capt & wk), Sobhana Mostary, Shorna Akter, Ritu Moni, Rabeya Khan, Marufa Akter, Sanjida Akter, Fariha Trisna.
Netherlands: Heather Siegers, Phebe Molkenboer, Babette de Leede (capt & wk), Sterre Kalis, Robine Rijke, Sanya Khurana, Frederique Overdijk, Iris Zwilling, Caroline de Lange, Silver Siegers, Isabel van der Woning.
Key facts in brief
• Netherlands debut in a Women’s T20 World Cup.
• Same pitch that produced 219 for England.
• Boundaries: 70 m straight, 61/55 m square.
• Bangladesh lead head-to-head 4-1.
Plenty for both sides to play for, and enough unknowns to keep analysts guessing.
