Joty rues batting debacle in first match in T20 WC

Bangladesh captain Nigar Sultana Joty felt that they couldn't maintain the high intensity, especially in batting, which eventually caused their seven-wicket defeat to Sri Lanka in their first match in the ICC Women's T20 World Cup in Cape Town.

The Tigresses indeed hoped to win the game, considering that they won against the same opponents several times in the recent past.

But electing to bat first, they were restricted to paltry total 126-8, which Sri Lanka hunted down with ease, making 129-3 in 18.2 overs. Opener Harshitha Samarawickrama led the charge with 50 ball-69 not out, studded with eight fours and one six.

"I believe we were at least 15/20 runs shot. In this type of wicket, you needed at least 140 runs if you want to win the game. Because Sri Lanka's batting is really strong," Joty said after the match.

For Bangladesh, Sobhana Mostary made team high with 29 while Joty herself made 28.

Bangladesh started well, making 72 runs in the first 10 overs. But in the last 10 overs, they were able to put on just 54 runs, a thing that dug their graveyards.

The Tigresses will take on Australia in their next match tomorrow (Tuesday) at Gqeberha.

"Australia is also a strong opponent but we are hopeful to give them a tough game," Joty said.