Bangladesh survive UAE fightback to face India in semis


Bangladesh prevailed over UAE's spirited bowling to win by 34 runs and advance to the Women's Asia Cup semifinals. After UAE's bowlers made early inroads, Bangladesh were in serious trouble when put into bat at 55 for 6. Suraksha Kotte took three wickets for 11 runs to lead the attack, while Indhuja Nandakumar took two. Sharmin Akhter and Nahida Akter's crucial 42-run partnership saved Bangladesh. Sharmin scored the most runs with 38 from 31 deliveries, hitting three fours, and Nahida added 16* from 26 deliveries to help Bangladesh recover and reach the 100-run mark. In the end, Bangladesh scored 103 runs for 7 wickets in 20 overs. Bangladesh immediately put pressure on UAE's chase with the ball, which led to a difficult start. Before Bangladesh's spinners could get in on the action, Marufa Akter started the bowling and got on the board early. Nahida Akter was particularly effective, finishing with two wickets for 18 runs. UAE were only able to reach 69 for 9 after 20 overs thanks to the contributions of Rabeya Khan, who took three wickets. India will now play Bangladesh in the first semi-final. In the other semi-final, Sri Lanka will play Pakistan.