Sharmin Akhter’s batting brilliance propels Bangladesh to series sweep over Ireland in WODIs

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Fahima Khatun shines with the ball
Sharmin Akhter headlines Bangladesh chase

Bangladesh registered a commanding seven-wicket victory over Ireland in the third ODI, played at the Shere Bangla National Stadium, Mirpur. This triumph not only showcased their consistency throughout the series but also secured a clean sweep with a 3-0 margin.

Fahima Khatun shines with the ball

Ireland’s innings began cautiously, but frequent breakthroughs by the Bangladesh bowlers restricted their momentum. Gaby Lewis top-scored with a resilient 52 off 79 balls, including nine boundaries. Contributions from Amy Hunter (23 off 40) and Orla Prendergast (27 off 45) provided some stability, while lower-order runs from Alana Dalzell (19 off 44) and Cara Murray (13 off 9) helped Ireland post 185.

Bangladesh’s bowlers were clinical, with Fahima Khatun leading the charge, claiming 3 for 43 in her 10 overs. Sultana Khatun (2 for 29) and Nahida Akter (2 for 55) also made significant impacts, ensuring the visitors could not capitalize on their starts. Rabeya Khan and Shorna Akter chipped in with a wicket each.

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Sharmin Akhter headlines Bangladesh chase

In response, Bangladesh’s top-order batters exhibited poise and precision. Fargana Hoque and Sharmin Akhter formed a solid 124-run partnership for the second wicket after an early dismissal of Murshida Khatun (8). Akhter’s brilliant 72 off 88 balls, laced with 11 boundaries, was the highlight of the chase.

Hoque contributed a steady 61 off 99 balls, anchoring the innings effectively. Contributions from Nigar Sultana (18 off 18) and Sobhana Mostary (7 off 8) ensured Bangladesh cruised to the target with 12.3 overs to spare. Aimee Maguire was the pick of the Ireland bowlers, taking 2 for 38 in her 8 overs, while Prendergast claimed the only other wicket, conceding 17 runs in 5 overs.

This victory solidified Bangladesh’s dominance throughout the series. They had earlier won the first ODI by a massive 154-run margin and followed it with a five-wicket victory in the second match. With this win, Bangladesh concluded the series on a high, registering a whitewash over the touring party.