Bangladesh’s journey in the Asia Cup concluded following a 40-run defeat against India in the first semifinal held at the Dubai International Stadium. After being sent to bat first, India posted a total of 149 runs for the loss of six wickets in their allotted 20 overs. In response, the Tigresses struggled to find momentum, managing only 109 runs for seven wickets by the end of their innings.
The match was heavily influenced by Bangladesh’s fielding lapses, as the team dropped five catches throughout India’s innings. Shafali Verma, who was the primary beneficiary of these errors, was dropped before reaching double digits. She went on to anchor the Indian side with a top score of 64 runs off 40 balls. While Sultana Khatun provided an early breakthrough by dismissing Smriti Mandhana in the second over, India’s middle order—led by Harmanpreet Kaur’s 28-ball 24—ensured a competitive total.
Bangladesh’s chase began with a 26-run opening partnership between Dilara Akter and Juwairiya Ferdous, but the team failed to accelerate. The required run rate climbed steadily as they managed only 46 runs in the first 10 overs. The pressure led to a collapse in the middle order; Sobhana Mostary fell at 66, Nigar Sultana at 76, and Sharmin Sultana at 83. By the time captain Nigar departed, the team required 74 runs from the final five overs, effectively sealing their fate. Swarna Akter remained unbeaten on 22 off 18 balls, but her efforts only served to narrow the margin of defeat.
Match Summary
- India Women: 149/6 in 20 overs (Shafali 64, Harmanpreet 24; Sultana 2/30)
- Bangladesh Women: 109/7 in 20 overs (Swarna 22, Dilara 21; Deepti 3/26)
- Result: India won by 40 runs
- Player of the Match: Shafali Verma
Following this exit, the Bangladesh squad will not return home immediately. They are scheduled to travel from Dubai to Japan to compete in the Asian Games. Their opening match in the tournament is set for September 17 against China.
