DHAKA, March 31, 2024 (BSS) - Despite a valiant 63-run from skipper Nigar Sultana, Bangladesh Women's team tasted a thumping 10-wicket defeat to Australia in the three-match T20 International series opener today at Sher-e-Bangla National Cricket Stadium.

Thanks to Nigar's solo battle, Bangladesh posted 126-4 after electing to bat first but that total was not enough against a ruthless side like Australia, which hunted down it just in 13 overs, reaching 127 for no loss.

Captain Alyssa Healy led the charge with 42 ball-65, an innings laced with nine fours and one six. Her fellow opener Beth Mooney was unbeaten on 55 after playing 36 balls as she sent the ball across the ropes for nine time.

Bangladesh made a disastrous start when Dilara Akter got a first-ball-duck and Sobhana Mostary received an eight-ball-duck, which left them a tittering two for two in second over.

Nigar steadied the ship with Murshida Khatun who made 20. However after Murshida's dismissal, Nigar found a support from Fahima Khatun, who added a rapid 27. Nigar finally was not out on 63 off 64 after hitting seven fours.

The second and third T20 is on April 2 and 4.

Earlier, Australia whitewashed Bangladesh in three-match ODI series.