Bangladesh suffered an eight-wicket defeat in their third and final ODI against the West Indies at Warner Park in St Kitts on Friday. The loss not only cost them the three-match series 2-1 but also dashed their hopes of securing direct qualification for the ICC Women's Cricket World Cup 2025.

After a heavy nine-wicket defeat in the series opener, Bangladesh made a strong comeback with a convincing 60-run victory in the second ODI—their first-ever win against the West Indies. A win in the final match would have secured their maiden ODI series triumph over the Windies and confirmed their spot in the World Cup.

With 21 points, Bangladesh finished seventh in the ICC Women's Championship standings, just behind New Zealand, who qualified for the World Cup due to a superior net run rate. India (hosts), Australia, England, South Africa, and Sri Lanka had already secured direct entry into the tournament.

As a result, Bangladesh will now compete in the World Cup qualifiers alongside West Indies, Ireland, Pakistan, Scotland, and Thailand, where only the top two teams will advance to the main event.

Opting to bat first, Bangladesh struggled and were bowled out for just 118 in 43.5 overs. Sharmin Akter top-scored with 37 off 58 balls, while Sobhana Mostary and opener Fargana Hoque Pinky contributed 25 and 22 runs, respectively. Skipper Nigar Sultana Joty managed only 11 off 29 deliveries.

For the hosts, Karishma Ramharack starred with the ball, taking four wickets for just 12 runs in 6.5 overs.

Chasing a modest total, the West Indies dominated from the start, comfortably reaching the target in 27.3 overs. Skipper Hayley Matthews and Qiana Joseph put on a 45-run opening stand before Matthews fell to Nahida Akter for 22 in the 12th over.

Marufa Akter dismissed Qiana Joseph (39 off 66) in the 21st over, but unbeaten knocks from Shemaine Campbelle (25) and Deandra Dottin (33) guided the Windies to a comfortable victory.

BDST: 1155 HRS, JAN 25, 2025
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