DAMBULLA: Bangladesh showcased a dominant performance in the Women’s Asia Cup Cricket 2024, defeating Malaysia by 114 runs to secure a place in the semi-finals at the Dambulla International Stadium in Sri Lanka.
Batting first after winning the toss, Bangladesh posted a formidable total of 191 for 2, marking their second-highest score in T20Is. Murshida Khatun led the charge with a career-best knock of 80 runs off 59 deliveries, well supported by captain Nigar Sultana who remained unbeaten on 62 off just 37 balls.
In response, Malaysia struggled to build partnerships and could only manage 77 for 8 in their allotted 20 overs. Despite a valiant effort from opener Elsa Hunter, who scored 20 runs off 23 balls, the Malaysian team failed to keep up with the required run rate throughout their innings.
Bangladesh’s bowlers maintained pressure from the start, with Jahanara Alam making an early breakthrough by dismissing Ainna Hamizah Hashim in the first over. Hunter showed resilience but lacked support from the other end as wickets fell at regular intervals.
Nahida Akter, the left-arm spinner, also made an impact with the ball, picking up crucial wickets to restrict Malaysia’s progress. Hunter, who also contributed with her off-spin bowling, finished as Malaysia’s top performer with figures of 1 for 27 from her four overs.
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Despite a few dropped catches by Malaysia, Bangladesh maintained control and ensured they sealed their victory comprehensively.
With this win, Bangladesh joins India and Pakistan in the semi-finals of the Women’s Asia Cup 2024.
