The Bangladesh women’s cricket team launched their Asia Cup campaign with a commanding 71-run victory over Indonesia at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium. After being sent in to bat first, Bangladesh posted a total of 129/8 in their allotted 20 overs, a target that proved far too steep for the Indonesian side, who were bundled out for just 58 runs.
Bangladesh’s innings faced an early setback when opener Juwairiya Ferdous Joyita departed in the third over after scoring 8 runs off 7 balls. However, Dilara Akter Dola and Sobhana Mostary stabilized the innings with a 40-run partnership. Dilara contributed 27 runs from 31 deliveries, including four boundaries. Following her dismissal, Sobhana teamed up with captain Nigar Sultana Joty for a 26-run stand. While the captain fell for 10 runs off 11 balls, Sobhana anchored the middle order with a solid 40 runs off 42 balls. Swarna Akter provided a late flourish, remaining unbeaten on 31 off just 18 balls, featuring three fours and a six. Ni Kadek Ariani was the standout bowler for Indonesia, claiming 3 wickets for 28 runs.
In response, Indonesia struggled against a disciplined Bangladeshi bowling attack. Marufa Akter struck twice during the powerplay, setting the tone for the collapse. The spinners maintained the pressure, with Nahida Akter returning impressive figures of 3/15 from her four overs. Marufa finished with 2/6, including a maiden over, while Sanjida Akter Meghla and Fahima Khatun chipped in with a wicket each. Maria Corazon top-scored for Indonesia with 12 runs. Bangladesh is scheduled to face Sri Lanka in their second match at the same venue this Sunday.
Match Summary
- Bangladesh: 129/8 in 20 overs (Sobhana 40, Swarna 31*, Dilara 27; Ariani 3/28)
- Indonesia: 58 all out in 17.3 overs (Corazon 12, Pangestuti 9; Nahida 3/15, Marufa 2/6)
- Result: Bangladesh won by 71 runs
