Bangladesh Women began their ICC Women's T20 World Cup campaign in style, defeating the Netherlands by six wickets in their Group 1 opener at Edgbaston on Sunday.

Chasing 140 for victory, the Tigresses reached the target with five balls to spare, thanks to a sparkling half-century from opener Juairia Ferdous.

Juairia blasted 50 off just 33 deliveries, striking seven fours and two sixes, to give Bangladesh a flying start. She shared a 67-run opening partnership with Dilara Akhtar in only 7.5 overs, laying a solid foundation for the chase.

The momentum was briefly interrupted when Juairia was dismissed and captain Nigar Sultana fell on the very next ball, caught at point off Caroline de Lange.

Dilara contributed 26 off 23 balls before becoming the third batter dismissed with the score on 79-3 in 10.2 overs. Bangladesh then slipped to 85-4 after Sobhana Mostary departed for 4, raising hopes of a Dutch comeback.

However, Sharmin Akhter and Shorna Akhter ensured there would be no further drama. The pair stitched together an unbeaten 56-run stand for the fifth wicket to guide Bangladesh safely home.

Sharmin remained unbeaten on 37 from 32 balls, while Shorna added an unbeaten 18 off 17 deliveries as Bangladesh sealed a comfortable victory.

Earlier, Netherlands captain Babette de Leede led her side's batting effort with a well-made 50 after Bangladesh opted to field first. The Dutch side finished on 139-8 from their 20 overs.

For Bangladesh, Marufa Akter was the standout bowler, claiming 2-31 to help restrict the Netherlands to a manageable total.

The convincing win gives Bangladesh an ideal start to their World Cup campaign and an early boost in the race for a place in the knockout stage.