In a historic moment for Bangladesh women’s cricket, Fargana Hoque achieved a remarkable feat by becoming the first Bangladeshi woman cricketer to score an ODI century. Her exceptional knock of 107 off 160 deliveries during the third and final ODI against India at the Sher-e-Bangla National Stadium in Mirpur played a crucial role in Bangladesh, posting a formidable total of 225 for four. Fargana’s century marks a significant milestone in Bangladesh women’s cricket, and her incredible performance led the team to a memorable moment on the field.
The pivotal moment arrived in the final delivery of the 48th over when Fargana drove a delivery from Shafali Verma for a boundary through the covers, completing her century off 156 deliveries. This outstanding innings featured seven boundaries, setting a new record for the highest score by a Bangladeshi woman in ODIs. The previous best was Salma Khatun’s unbeaten 75 against India in Ahmedabad in 2013. Fargana’s incredible knock will be remembered as a landmark achievement in Bangladesh women’s cricket.
Electing to bat, Bangladesh got off to a strong start as Fargana and Shamima Sultana formed a solid opening partnership of 93 runs. The 93-run stand became the second-best opening partnership for Bangladesh in ODI cricket, only behind a 113-run partnership between Sharmin Akhter and Shukhtara Rahman against Ireland in Savar in 2011. Shamima’s 52 runs off 78 balls contribution complemented Fargana’s century and set the foundation for a competitive total.
Despite Fargana’s brilliant century, India’s Sneh Rana stood out as the pick of the bowlers, registering figures of two for 45 in her 10 overs. However, her efforts were insufficient to prevent Bangladesh from reaching their milestone total. With the three-match series level at 1-1, Bangladesh has the opportunity to clinch their maiden ODI series win over India, adding further significance to Fargana’s century and the team’s overall performance.
