The White Ferns have yet to register a win after two losses and face the threat of an early tournament exit if they falter again. Veteran Sophie Devine remains their standout performer, scoring 112 and 85 in previous matches, while openers Suzie Bates and Georgia Plimmer have struggled for consistency. Batting first, New Zealand will aim to post totals above 250 to give their bowlers a defendable score.
Bangladesh, seeking their second win from three matches, will rely on their spin-heavy attack. Vice-captain Nahida Akter leads the spin unit, supported by leg-spinners Fahima Khatun, Rabeya Khan, and 18-year-old Shorna Akter, who impressed with figures of 3/5 against Pakistan. Pacer Marufa Akter will look to exploit early swing with the new ball.
Batting remains a concern for Bangladesh, with captain Nigar Sultana still experimenting with the lineup. The Guwahati pitch has tested batters, evident from India’s 269/8 and South Africa’s collapse for 69, demanding patience and careful shot selection.
Squads:
Bangladesh: Nigar Sultana Joty (c), Nahida Akter, Farzana Haque, Rubya Haider Jhelik, Sharmin Akter Supta, Sobhana Mostary, Ritu Moni, Shorna Akter, Fahima Khatun, Rabeya Khan, Marufa Akter, Fariha Islam Trisna, Shanjida Akther Maghla, Nishita Akter Nishi, Sumaiya Akter
New Zealand: Sophie Devine (c), Suzie Bates, Eden Carson, Flora Devonshire, Izzy Gaze, Maddy Green, Brooke Halliday, Bree Illing, Polly Inglis, Bella James, Melie Kerr, Jess Kerr, Rosemary Mair, Georgia Plimmer, Lea Tahuhu