WATCH: Bangladesh players break down in tears after heartbreaking defeat to South Africa in Women’s World Cup 2025

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Bangladesh‘s campaign in the Women’s World Cup 2025 suffered another heartbreaking twist on Monday (October 13) as they fell short by a narrow margin against South Africa at the ACA-VDCA Cricket Stadium in Visakhapatnam. Despite putting up a valiant fight and dominating large parts of the contest, the Tigresses were left in tears after Nadine de Klerk‘s late flourish sealed a thrilling three-wicket win for the Proteas.

Batting first, Bangladesh produced one of their finest batting displays in recent times, posting a challenging total of 232/6 on a turning track. Their top order showed composure and determination, with key partnerships ensuring the scoreboard kept ticking. Sharmin Akhter and Shorna Akter sizzled with their respective half-centuries while captain Nigar Sultana played a handy knock of 32 runs.

The chase was far from smooth for South Africa. They crumbled to 78/5 against Bangladesh’s disciplined bowling attack. The spin trio of Nahida Akter, Rabeya Khan, and Fahima Khatun tied down the Proteas batters with tight lines and clever variations, making run-scoring extremely difficult. However, the experience of all-rounders Marizanne Kapp and Chloe Tryon proved vital for South Africa. Both displayed grit and counter-attacked at the right moments, stitching together a crucial partnership that dragged their side back into the contest.

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With 37 runs required off the final five overs, the match hung in the balance. De Klerk showcased nerves of steel, taking charge of the chase alongside Masabata Klaas. The equation came down to eight runs needed off the last over, bowled by Nahida Akter. In a dramatic finish, De Klerk struck a six and a four in three balls to secure victory for her team, sparking jubilant celebrations from the South African camp.

In stark contrast, the Bangladeshi players were inconsolable. Nahida, who bowled the final over, sat down in tears as her teammates tried to console her. Several players in the field and in the dugout covered their faces, unable to hide their emotions after coming so close once again.

Bangladesh players can't believe that they lost this game, heart 💔 situation for them. Players are emotional and crying #WomensWorldCup #BANWvsSAW

— All about Cricket 🏏 (@inr4477) October 13, 2025

Also READ: Women’s World Cup 2025: Chloe Tryon and Marizanne Kapp star in South Africa’s thrilling win over Bangladesh

This article was first published at WomenCricket.com, a Cricket Times company.