Dilara Akter Sets New Record with Fastest Fifty in T20I

In a remarkable display of skill, Dilara Akter of Bangladesh scored the fastest fifty in T20 international cricket by a Bangladeshi woman, achieving this in just 22 balls. Her explosive innings helped secure a 13-run victory over the Netherlands in a rain-affected match. With this win, Bangladesh solidified their position in the tri-series standings, preparing for the upcoming ICC Women's T20 World Cup. Discover more about this thrilling match and Akter's record-breaking performance.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jun 5, 2026, 17:02 IST

Dilara Akter's Record-Breaking Performance

In a thrilling women's T20I tri-series match held in Edinburgh, Bangladesh opener Dilara Akter showcased her exceptional talent by scoring a record-breaking fifty, leading her team to a narrow 13-run victory over the Netherlands. The right-handed batswoman achieved this remarkable feat in just 22 balls, marking the fastest fifty by a Bangladeshi woman in T20 international cricket. This achievement surpassed the previous record of 28 balls set by Rumana Ahmed against Pakistan in Lahore back in 2019.

As reported by the ICC, Dilara's explosive innings of 51 runs off 26 balls, which included eight boundaries and two sixes, was instrumental in setting a competitive total of 98 for 3 in a match that was shortened to eight overs per side due to rain. Her 22-ball fifty is also among the quickest in the history of women's T20I cricket.

Bangladesh got off to a strong start, with Dilara and her opening partner Juairiya Ferdous contributing 42 runs for the first wicket in just 21 balls. Following Juairiya's dismissal, Dilara continued to dominate the bowling attack, forming a brisk 40-run partnership with Sobhana Mostary, ensuring that Bangladesh maintained their momentum throughout the innings.

Netherlands' Response and Bangladesh's Triumph

In pursuit of 99 runs, the Netherlands began their innings with aggression. Heather Siegers scored 21 runs off 15 balls, while Babette de Leede made a quick 30 off just 14 deliveries. Together, they formed a solid opening partnership of 53 runs in only 28 balls, keeping the Dutch team in the game.

However, Bangladesh made a comeback thanks to left-arm seamer Fariha Trisna, who took two crucial wickets in the fifth over, disrupting the Netherlands' chase.

Trisna concluded her spell with impressive figures of 2 for 20, playing a pivotal role in shifting the match's momentum. Although Robine Rijke added a quick 21 runs, Bangladesh maintained their composure in the final overs. Ritu Moni delivered a decisive performance, claiming two wickets in the last over, restricting the Netherlands to 85 for 5.

This victory secured Bangladesh's second position in the tri-series standings, trailing only behind the hosts, Scotland, while the Netherlands finished in third place. Both teams are now gearing up for the ICC Women's T20 World Cup, set to commence on June 12.