Habiba, Sharmin impress despite Bangladesh's defeat in practice match against Queensland

Despite impressive performances from uncapped pacer Habiba Islam Pinky and experienced batter Sharmin Akhter Supta, Bangladesh suffered a 72-run defeat to Queensland Fire on the DLS method in their lone practice match at Ian Healy Oval in Brisbane on Tuesday.

In the 36-over-per-side contest, Queensland, after opting to bat first, posted 266 for nine, with skipper Charli Knott leading the way with a 64-ball 94 and Grace Harris making 76 off 50 balls. Opener Lauren Winfield-Hill also chipped in with 48 off 37.

Tap here to add The Daily Star as a trusted source

Habiba was the pick of the Bangladesh bowlers, claiming four wickets for 44 runs in her seven overs, while Marufa Akter took two wickets.

Bangladesh were reduced to 54 for three in their chase before Sharmin and Sobhana Mostary steadied the innings with a 112-run fourth-wicket partnership.

Sobhana was eventually dismissed for 49 off 54 balls, but Sharmin continued to anchor the innings as Bangladesh finished on 196 for seven in their allotted 36 overs.

Sharmin top-scored with 68 off 67 balls, hitting six fours before being dismissed with just one ball remaining. Nicola Hancock was the most successful Queensland bowler, taking three wickets for 51 runs in her seven overs.

Bangladesh will now turn their attention to the three-match WODI series against Australia, with the opening game scheduled for October 9 at Allan Border Field in Brisbane. The second and third WODIs will be played at the same venue on October 11 and 14 respectively.

It will be the first-ever bilateral WODI series between Bangladesh and Australia in Australia.