Bangladesh narrowly missed victory in their first match of the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2026 warm-up, falling short by 11 runs against Ireland in Loughborough on Tuesday. Meanwhile, Scotland showcased a dominant performance, defeating Pakistan by 41 runs (DLS method) in Derby.
These warm-up games were vital in preparing the teams for the upcoming tournament scheduled to commence on June 12 across seven venues in England.
In a match characterized by low scores, Ireland batted first and posted 143 for nine. Bangladesh, in response, managed 132 for six.
Bangladesh made an early breakthrough with fast bowler Marufa Akter dismissing Alana Danzell for a golden duck in the first over. However, Ireland recovered through a partnership between Leah Paul and Rebecca Stokell, with Stokell top-scoring with 30 off 23 balls.
A late surge from Ava Canning, who smashed consecutive sixes and a four in the final over, pushed Ireland past the 140-run mark.
Sanjida Meghla, the left-arm spinner, led the Bangladesh bowling attack with figures of three for 26, with six out of seven bowlers also grabbing wickets.
In their chase, Ireland struck early as Aimee Maguire removed Dilara Akter in the first over. Despite the setback, Bangladesh regrouped through Juairiya Ferdous and Sharmin Supta, who added 77 runs for the second wicket.
Juairiya played a key role in the innings with a fluent half-century, smashing 10 boundaries in a quick 38-ball knock. However, Bangladesh lost momentum after her departure.
