The Bangladesh women's side bravely battled Australia in the opening ODI series match at the Sher-e-Bangla National Cricket Stadium, but ultimately lost by 118 runs.

In an enthralling contest at the Sher-e-Bangla National Cricket Stadium, the Bangladesh Women’s team displayed remarkable resilience against the formidable Australian side in the opening match of the three-match ODI series. Opting to bat first, Australia faced early setbacks, finding themselves at 27-3 and then 78-5. However, an impressive recovery saw the World Champions post a total of 213-7. Annabel Sutherland led the charge with an unbeaten 58, well-supported by Alana King who smashed a quickfire 46 off just 31 balls, setting a new record for the most sixes in an innings for Australia.

In response, Bangladesh struggled to build momentum and was ultimately bowled out for just 95 runs in 36 overs. Fahima Khatun bore the brunt of King's onslaught, conceding 67 runs in 9 overs, setting a new record for the most runs conceded by a Bangladesh bowler in an innings. Sultana Khatun and Nahida Akter contributed with the ball, taking two wickets each. Notably, Nahida became the leading wicket-taker for Bangladesh in ODIs with 53 wickets to her name.

Despite a valiant effort from the Bangladesh team, only three batters managed to reach double digits, with captain Nigar Sultana top-scoring with 27. Ashliegh Gardner was the standout bowler for Australia, claiming 3-22, while Alana King, after her explosive batting performance, also chipped in with a wicket. King's all-round display earned her the accolade of Player of the Match.

The match also witnessed milestones, with Ellyse Perry breaking the record for playing the most ODIs for Australia, and King surpassing Shelly Nitschke's record for the most sixes in an innings for Australia. Despite the loss, Bangladesh's fighting spirit bodes well for an exciting series ahead.