India continued their dominant performance at the ICC U19 Women’s T20 World Cup in Malaysia, achieving their fourth consecutive victory by defeating Bangladesh by eight wickets. This win solidified India’s position at the top of Group 1 on net run-rate and ensured their advancement to the semi-finals, where Australia will join them.
Stellar Bowling Performance
In a compelling bowling display, Vaishnavi Sharma stood out for India, claiming three wickets for just 15 runs. Bangladesh struggled throughout their innings, scoring a mere 64 runs for losing eight wickets in their 20 overs. India’s bowlers made quick work of the Bangladeshi batting line-up, making early breakthroughs that set the tone for the match.
Toss and Early Breakthroughs
Upon winning the toss, India opted to field first, and it quickly paid dividends. Mosammat Eva, making her tournament debut, hit a two off her first ball but was soon dismissed on the second delivery when she edged a ball from Shabnam to slip, where Sanika Chalke took a spectacular catch. After this, Sadia Islam was run out for just five runs, and Fahomida Choya’s dismissal by VJ Joshitha left Bangladesh at nine for three.
Middle Order Resistance
Sharma continued to exert pressure on the Bangladeshi batting lineup, successfully catching Mosammat and Sumaiya Akther, Suborna leg before wicket (LBW). This dismissal marked a significant turning point, as Bangladesh struggled at 22 for four. Sumaiya had attempted to defend a delivery that pitched sharply, but the ball struck her pad directly in front of the stumps, leading to the umpire’s decision to raise the finger.
Adding to Bangladesh’s woes, the next moment saw another crucial wicket fall due to a run-out. Afia Ashima Era and her batting partner were in a risky situation as they attempted a quick single. Miscommunication led to confusion between the two, and as Afia raced down the pitch. The Indian fielders acted swiftly, shattering the stumps with Afia just short of her ground. This sequence of events pushed Bangladesh deeper into trouble at 22 for five, highlighting the team’s mounting pressure against a disciplined Indian bowling attack.
Closing the Innings
Sumaiya Akter fought valiantly, remaining at the crease until the end of the innings and finishing with a score of 22 not out. She was joined by Nishita Akter Nishi, who was stumped for six off the last ball of the innings, bowled by Trisha Gongadi, culminating in Bangladesh’s total of 64 runs.
Dominant Chase by India
In response, India’s batting lineup, led by Trisha Gongadi, set the tone for an aggressive chase. Gongadi started on a high note, striking three boundaries in the very first over, establishing early momentum for her team. Mosammat, Anisa Akter Soba posed a challenge with the ball, dismissing G Kamalini for three runs. India’s score was then 23 for one.
Finishing Strong
However, Gongadi was relentless, continuing to find the boundary with ease. She eventually amassed 40 runs off just 31 deliveries, hitting eight boundaries before being caught in the deep off the bowling of Habiba Islam Pinky, reducing India to 51 for two. Captain Niki Prasad stepped up to complete the chase, sealing the victory with a boundary, as India comfortably crossed the finish line in just 7.1 overs.
Match Summary
Bangladesh: 64 for 8 in 20 overs
- Top Scorers: Sumaiya Akter 21*; Jannatul Maoua 14
- Best Bowlers: Vaishnavi Sharma 3/15, VJ Joshitha 1/6, Trisha Gongadi 1/6
India: 66 for 2 in 7.1 overs
- Top Scorers: Trisha Gongadi 40; Sanika Chalke 11*
- Best Bowlers: Habiba Islam Pinky 1/15, Mst Anisa Akter Soba 1/29
Result: India won by eight wickets.
