Online Desk: Bangladesh Women’s Cricket Team suffered a big defeat to Australia on Thursday in the opening match of the three-match ODI series.

Chasing a target of 214, Bangladesh were all out for 95, resulting in an Australian victory by 118 runs.

Despite a promising start at 70 for two wickets, Bangladesh’s batting collapsed, losing their last eight wickets for just 25 runs.

Earlier, Bangladesh won the toss and elected to field. Australia posted a challenging 213/7 in their 50 overs. Captain Alyssa Healy led early with 24, but two quick wickets kept the scoring in check.

Annabel Sutherland’s unbeaten 58 and contributions from Ashleigh Gardner and Alana King propelled Australia to a competitive total.

In reply, Bangladesh struggled against Australia’s disciplined bowling. Megan Schutt and Kim Garth caused early damage, and wickets fell regularly. Despite a fighting 27 from captain Nigar Sultana, Bangladesh couldn’t forge significant partnerships and were bowled out for 95 in 36 overs.

The second and third matches of the series will take place on March 24 and 27, respectively, at the same venue.