Bangladesh successfully navigated a challenging encounter against the United Arab Emirates, securing a 34-run victory that confirms their progression to the semi-finals of the Women’s Asia Cup. They are now set to face India in the tournament’s first semi-final, while Pakistan and Sri Lanka will compete in the other fixture.
The match began with significant difficulty for Bangladesh after they were invited to bat first. The UAE bowlers dominated the early stages, reducing Bangladesh to 55 for 6. Suraksha Kotte spearheaded the UAE attack with an impressive spell, claiming 3 wickets for 11 runs, while Indhuja Nandakumar provided valuable support by taking 2 wickets.
A vital 42-run partnership between Sharmin Akhter and Nahida Akter proved to be the turning point for the batting side. Sharmin led the scoring with 38 runs off 31 deliveries, including three boundaries, and Nahida remained unbeaten on 16 off 26 balls. Their efforts allowed Bangladesh to recover and post a total of 103 for 7 by the end of their 20 overs.
In response, the UAE struggled to build momentum against a disciplined bowling display. Marufa Akter initiated the pressure with an early breakthrough, and the spinners maintained control throughout the innings. Nahida Akter was instrumental with the ball, finishing with figures of 2 for 18, while Rabeya Khan took 3 wickets for 14 runs. The UAE were restricted to 69 for 9, with Heena Hotchandani top-scoring for them with 18 runs.
Brief scores: Bangladesh 103/7 (Sharmin Akhter 38; Suraksha Kotte 3-11) defeated UAE 69/9 in 20 overs (Heena Hotchandani 18; Rabeya Khan 3-14) by 34 runs. The report also notes that put in to bat, Bangladesh were in serious trouble at 55 for 6 after UAE’s bowlers made early inroads.
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