A record eighth-wicket stand by Chatterji and Slater couldn’t save Scotland from a 34-run defeat.
Scotland’s hopes of reaching the ICC Women’s World Cup took a hit after falling to a 34-run defeat at the hands of Bangladesh in Lahore, despite a record-breaking partnership that lit up the tournament.
In a must-win game at the World Cup qualifier, Bangladesh elected to bat first and laid down a solid foundation. Nigar Sultana, the competition’s top scorer, once again underlined her class with an unbeaten 83 from 59 balls, guiding her team to 276-6 from their 50 overs. She was supported by Fargana Hoque and Ritu Moni Akhter, who each struck 57.
Scotland, needing a win to boost their qualification hopes, were immediately on the back foot. Abbi Aitken-Drummond was removed in just the second over, and talismanic captain Kathryn Bryce, who had averaged over 50 so far in the tournament, departed cheaply for just five.
A rebuilding job was needed, but wickets fell steadily. Sarah Bryce showed resistance with a composed 42, but when she was dismissed, Scotland found themselves floundering at 110-7 by the 28th over.
Then came an extraordinary fightback from Priyanaz Chatterji and Rachel Slater. With grit, composure and no shortage of flair, the pair rebuilt the innings in remarkable fashion. Slater, coming in at number nine, showed her batting credentials with a fluent 61 not out, while Chatterji matched her score before being stumped late in the innings.
Their 115-run stand not only gave Scotland hope in an otherwise faltering chase, but it also etched their names into the record books—it is now the highest eighth-wicket partnership in women’s one-day international cricket.
It was a thrilling, defiant stand, but ultimately not enough. Scotland finished on 242-9 from their 50 overs, 34 runs short of the target. The effort was valiant, but it leaves their qualification hopes hanging by a thread.
Bangladesh’s young seamer Nahida Akter was the pick of the bowlers, returning figures of 4-40, including the key wickets of the Bryce sisters. Her control and accuracy in the middle overs ensured Bangladesh kept the pressure on, even as Chatterji and Slater mounted their resistance.
With this result, Bangladesh maintain their perfect record alongside tournament hosts Pakistan. Both sides now look well set to claim the two coveted spots at the Women’s World Cup in India this autumn.
Scotland, meanwhile, must regroup quickly. They face Ireland on Friday in their final group match. With wins already secured over the West Indies and Thailand, their path to qualification isn’t entirely closed—but they now require victory and favourable results elsewhere to advance.
Coach Mark Coles praised the fighting spirit of his side, particularly the middle and lower order. “What Priyanaz and Rachel showed out there was heart, skill, and belief,” he said. “They gave us a chance in a match that looked gone. That kind of spirit is what we’ll take into the Ireland game.”
The road ahead may be uncertain, but Scotland’s performance—even in defeat—provided a silver lining. In a pressure-packed encounter, they rewrote history and proved they’re capable of standing tall among the world’s best.
