Fargana-Murshida record stand guides Bangladesh to series-clinching win over Pakistan

Fargana Hoque and Murshida Khatun forged a record opening partnership to help Bangladesh win the third ODI against Pakistan by seven wickets and take the three-match series 2-1.

Fargana and Murshida added 125 in 35 overs which was Bangladesh's highest ever opening partnership in their ODI history. 

Bangladesh were looking good for a 10-wicket win but Nashra Sandhu struck in the 35th over to break the partnership by getting Fargana for 62 off 113.

Sandhu soon got rid of the other opener Murshida (54 off 106) as well. 

Pakistan showed a bit of fight with three quick wickets but it was the opening stand that all but confirmed Bangladesh's victory. Skipper Nigar Sultana and Sobhana Mostary were there till the end to seal the win.

Earlier, Sidra Ameen carried her bat to take Pakistan to 166-9, a score almost similar to that of the second ODI which was a Super Over thriller.

Pakistan got off to a decent start as Ameen and Sadaf Shamas added 65 for the first wicket which remained Pakistan's only substantial partnership. 

After Shamas' departure on 31, no batter could provide support to Ameen and she was unbeaten on 84 off 143 when the innings ended for Pakistan.

Left-arm spinner Nahida Akter, who was the player of the T20I series, starred with the ball again with three wickets which included the one of Shamas. 

Apart from Marufa Akter, all Bangladesh bowlers were among the wickets.