Bangladesh bow out after another India defeat

A disappointing effort from Bangladesh in all three departments saw them lose to India by 40 runs in the first semifinal of the ongoing Women’s Asia Cup T20 in Dubai on Thursday, ending their campaign in the regional competition.

Bangladesh had kept India’s batters in check until the 15th over, reducing them to 96 for three, although they also squandered quite a few chances in the field. India, however, finished strongly, adding 53 runs in the final five overs to post a competitive 149 for six after being asked to bat first.

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Shafali Verma made the most of her reprieves to top-score with 64 off 40 balls, while Harmanpreet Kaur (24 not out), Richa Ghosh (21) and Deepti Sharma (13 not out off six) provided the late impetus.

For Bangladesh, Sultana Khatun claimed 2-30, while Marufa Akter, Nahida Akter and Rabeya Khan took a wicket apiece.

Bangladesh’s chase never looked convincing from the outset, as the batters appeared more focused on avoiding a heavy defeat than seriously pursuing the 150-run target.

Shorna Akter, who came in at number five, remained unbeaten on 22 off 18 balls, but by then the match had effectively slipped away. Bangladesh eventually finished on 109 for seven in their 20 overs.

Needing to score at 7.5 runs per over, Bangladesh’s top order failed to build any momentum. Dilara Akter (21 off 26), Juaraiya Ferdous (14 off 18) and Sobhana Mostary (18 off 24) all failed to convert their starts, while skipper Nigar Sultana Joty (19 off 17) once again failed to inspire her side.

Joty’s disappointing tournament ended with just 56 runs from four matches. Deepti was the pick of the Indian bowlers with 3-26, while Nandani Sharma claimed two wickets.

The defeat was Bangladesh’s ninth consecutive loss to India in T20Is, a streak that dates back to September 2023. Bangladesh also lost to India in the semifinal of the last edition of Asia Cup.

Seven-time champions India will face either Sri Lanka or Pakistan in Sunday’s final at the same venue as they look to reclaim the title they lost to Sri Lanka in 2024.