Devine, Halliday, and Bowlers Gave New Zealand Their First Win of the World Cup 2025

They bowled very well, ensuring that Bangladesh only scored 127 runs, and they won the match easily. Although the victory was important, the New Zealand women’s team will take time to consider the issues they still have in the top order and strive to improve as they head to Colombo.

New Zealand secured its first win of the 2025 Women’s World Cup, defeating Bangladesh by 100 runs. After being reduced to 38 for 3, Sophie Devine (53) and Brooke Halliday (69) steadied the NZ innings to a competitive total of 227 for 9. Their 112-run partnership was crucial, helping the Kiwis recover from a shaky start.

Bangladesh’s top order had to deal with the swing of Jess Kerr and Rosemary Mair, and Bangladesh was down to 22 in the first ten overs. The critical wickets of Tahuhu also added pressure, and the chase became difficult.

Fahima Khatun (34) and Rabeya Khan (not out 20) provided brief resistance, but Bangladesh were bowled out for 127 in 39.5 overs. New Zealand’s bowlers dominated, with Kerr and Tahuhu leading the charge.

The victory was crucial, but New Zealand should focus on addressing issues with top-order performers, especially Suzie Bates, Amelia Kerr, and Georgia Plimmer. The number of spin battles in Colombo, Sri Lanka, will be of interest to refine their approach to the rest of the tournament.