Bangladesh survive UAE scare to reach semis

Bangladesh survived a major scare against the United Arab Emirates before securing a 34-run victory over the hosts in their final Group B match of the Women’s Asia Cup T20 in Dubai on Tuesday, with another strong bowling display making up for a disappointing batting performance.

The victory secured Bangladesh’s place in the semifinals as Group B runners-up and set up a clash with India at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium on Thursday.

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Sent in to bat in the must-win encounter, Bangladesh struggled from the outset and were reduced to 55-6 in the 12th over.

Dilara Akter and Sobhana Mostary were dismissed inside the third over before Juairiya Ferdous and captain Nigar Sultana Joty steadied the innings with a 29-run partnership.

Juairiya was eventually dismissed for 16, while Joty followed for 23 after being caught and bowled by off-spinner Suraksha Kotte, who finished with three wickets.

Bangladesh slipped further when Shorna Akter and Fahima Akter were dismissed off successive deliveries by pacer Indhuja Nandakumar.
However, experienced batter Sharmin Akhter Supta, returning to the XI for her first appearance of the tournament, provided the much-needed recovery. 

She scored a crucial 38 off 31 balls and shared a 42-run partnership with Nahida Akter, who remained unbeaten on 16, as Bangladesh posted 103-9.

The UAE chase never gained momentum as Bangladesh’s bowlers once again delivered under pressure.

Marufa Akter struck twice early, removing UAE captain Esha Oza for two and Samaira Dharnidharka for eight.

The spinners then tightened the screws, with Rabeya Khan, recalled to the XI in place of Ritu Moni, taking 3-14 and Nahida claiming 2-18 as Bangladesh restricted the hosts to 69-9 from their 20 overs.

Heena Hotchandani was UAE’s top scorer with 18.

Bangladesh face India in the first semifinal on Thursday at the same venue. Pakistan will take on Sri Lanka in the other semifinal on Friday, with the final scheduled for Sunday.