Title Slips Away as Bangladesh Women Fall 46 Runs Short Against India

Bangladesh’s women narrowly missed out on their dream of lifting the trophy. In the final of the Women’s Asia Cup Rising Stars, Fahima Khatun and her teammates failed to cross the last hurdle, going down to India by 46 runs. India emerged as champions of this year’s tournament, while Bangladesh had to settle for the runners-up spot.

In the title-deciding match held in Bangkok, Thailand, India opted to bat first after winning the toss. They posted 134 for 7 in their allotted 20 overs. Chasing 135 for victory, Bangladesh were bowled out for 88, losing all their wickets and with it their hopes of clinching the title.

The two finalists had contrasting journeys to the summit clash. India secured their place in the final with a win over Sri Lanka in the first semifinal. Bangladesh, on the other hand, booked their spot by defeating Pakistan in a competitive encounter.

Bangladesh began the chase on a promising note. They collected 36 runs for the loss of just one wicket in the powerplay. However, the momentum soon shifted as wickets began to fall at regular intervals. The middle and lower order failed to stabilize the innings, and the team could not recover from the collapse.

Opener Shamima Sultana was the top scorer for Bangladesh with 20 runs. Sharmin Sultana contributed 18, captain Fahima Khatun added 14, and Sadia Akter chipped in with 10. None of the other batters managed to reach double figures.

For India, Prema Rawat was the standout performer with the ball, claiming three wickets. Sonia and Tanuja picked up two wickets each, while three other bowlers took one wicket apiece.

Earlier, India’s innings had an unsteady start. They were under pressure at 44 for 4. However, a crucial 69-run partnership for the fifth wicket between captain Radha Yadav and Tejal Hasabnis turned the tide in their favor.

Radha Yadav scored 36 off 30 balls before being dismissed by Fahima Khatun. Tejal Hasabnis remained unbeaten on 51, reaching her half-century in just 34 balls with three fours and two sixes. Dinesh Vrinda added 19 runs, while the rest of the batters failed to make significant contributions.

Fahima Khatun was the pick of the bowlers for Bangladesh, taking four wickets. Two other bowlers claimed one wicket each. Despite the bowling effort, Bangladesh’s batting struggles ultimately cost them the championship.