New Zealand pip Bangladesh to seal last direct spot for Women’s ODI World Cup 2025

Bangladesh’s hopes of securing a direct berth in the 2025 ODI World Cup were dashed after they lost the final match of a three-match series in the West Indies on Friday, January 24. New Zealand pipped Bangladesh to automatic qualification for the premier tournament, which will be held in India for the first time since 2013.

Bangladesh had a great opportunity to seal direct qualification after defeating the West Indies in the second ODI of their series in Basseterre. However, in the series decider, their batters crumbled under pressure, and they were bundled out for just 118. The West Indies comfortably chased down the target, sealing a 2-1 series victory. The third ODI on Friday was the final match of the ICC Women’s Championship series.

At the end of the Women’s Championship — a 10-team tournament in which all teams played eight three-match series, four at home and four away — the top six teams, including hosts India, secured direct qualification for the World Cup.

Bangladesh and New Zealand were tied on 21 points each after 24 matches. However, New Zealand secured the higher position in the standings due to an extra win.

Australia topped the Championship with 39 points, while India finished a close second with 37. England (32), South Africa (25), and Sri Lanka (22) are the other teams to have secured direct berths for the World Cup.

Bangladesh (21), West Indies (18), Pakistan (17) and Ireland (eight) will be joined in the Cricket World Cup Qualifier by Scotland and Thailand, the two other highest ranked teams as of 31 October 2024.

The ICC is yet to announce the dates for the Cricket World Cup qualifier, in which two spots will be up for grabs.