The stage is set for a pivotal clash in the ICC Women’s ODI World Cup 2025 as Bangladesh takes on New Zealand in what could be a turning point for both teams. With Bangladesh eager to bounce back and New Zealand desperate for their first win, the BAN vs NZ encounter promises high stakes, tactical battles, and emotional intensity.
BAN vs NZ: A Must-Win for Both Sides
After a heartbreaking narrow loss to England, Bangladesh enters this match with renewed determination. Their spin attack—led by Fahima Khatun and Nahida Akter—has been nothing short of exceptional, consistently troubling top-order batters throughout the tournament .
However, the team’s batting frailties remain a glaring concern. Against a New Zealand side hungry for redemption, Bangladesh’s middle order will need to show resilience they’ve rarely displayed under pressure.
New Zealand’s Early Struggles
New Zealand, traditionally a powerhouse in women’s cricket, has stumbled out of the gates, losing both of their opening matches. Their batting lineup has looked shaky, and their bowlers have struggled to contain aggressive starts.
Now, they’ve zeroed in on Bangladesh’s inexperienced batters as a potential weak spot. Expect Suzie Bates and Sophie Devine to lead a calculated assault, while Amelia Kerr’s leg-spin could prove decisive on what’s expected to be a dry, turning track.
Key Matchups to Watch
- Fahima Khatun vs Suzie Bates – Experience meets guile. Can Bangladesh’s veteran spinner stifle New Zealand’s most consistent batter?
- Nigar Sultana (c) vs Amelia Kerr – The Bangladesh captain’s composure will be tested against Kerr’s deceptive variations.
- Shamima Sultana vs Sophie Devine – If Bangladesh posts a competitive total, their wicketkeeper-batter’s ability to anchor the innings could be the difference.
Predicted Playing XIs
| Bangladesh | New Zealand |
|---|---|
| 1. Sharmin Akhter | 1. Sophie Devine (c) |
| 2. Sharmine Akhter | 2. Suzie Bates |
| 3. Nigar Sultana (wk) | 3. Georgia Plimmer |
| 4. Shamima Sultana | 4. Maddy Green |
| 5. Fargana Hoque | 5. Amelia Kerr |
| 6. Ritu Moni | 6. Jess Kerr |
| 7. Nahida Akter | 7. Fran Jonas |
| 8. Fahima Khatun | 8. Eden Carson |
| 9. Rabeya Khan | 9. Hannah Darlington |
| 10. Marufa Akter | 10. Anna Peterson |
| 11. Jahanara Alam | 11. Kate Anderson (wk) |
Tactical Outlook
Bangladesh will likely bat first if they win the toss, aiming to post 220+ on a surface that slows down as the game progresses. Their spinners could then dominate the middle overs—a phase where New Zealand has repeatedly collapsed.
Conversely, if New Zealand bowls first, their pace attack must strike early. Bangladesh’s top order has folded for under 50 in two of their last five ODIs. One or two quick wickets could tilt the match decisively.
What’s at Stake?
For Bangladesh, a win would not only revive their semifinal hopes but also mark a historic milestone—potentially their first-ever victory over New Zealand in World Cup history.
For New Zealand, failure to win here could spell early elimination, adding pressure on a squad already reeling from uncharacteristic losses.