Bangladesh set up India clash in Women's Asia Cup semi-final

Bangladesh secured a place in the semi-finals of the Women's Asia Cup 2026 after beating the United Arab Emirates by 34 runs in their final Group B match in Dubai on Tuesday. The victory set up a last-four meeting with unbeaten India.

Bangladesh were put into bat and struggled to build momentum against the UAE bowling attack. They lost wickets regularly and were reduced to 55 for six in the 12th over before Sharmin Akhter steadied the innings.

Sharmin top-scored with 38 from 31 balls, helping Bangladesh recover and finish their 20 overs on 103 for seven. Nahida Akter also made a valuable unbeaten contribution as Bangladesh reached a total that initially appeared modest on a slow Dubai surface.

The UAE then struggled in the chase as Bangladesh's bowlers maintained pressure throughout the innings. The hosts finished on 69 for nine from their 20 overs, leaving Bangladesh with a 34-run victory.

Rabeya Khan was the standout bowler for Bangladesh, taking three wickets for 14 runs from her four overs. Marufa Akter and Nahida Akter claimed two wickets each, while Sultana Khatun and Fahima Khatun also took a wicket apiece.

The result was crucial for Bangladesh after their four-wicket defeat to defending champions Sri Lanka in their previous match. Sri Lanka had chased down Bangladesh's 114 for eight with four wickets in hand, leaving the Tigresses needing a victory against the UAE to keep their semi-final hopes alive.

Bangladesh's victory confirmed them as Group B runners-up and completed the four-team semi-final lineup. India finished top of Group A, while Sri Lanka topped Group B and Pakistan secured second place in Group A.

Bangladesh will face India in the first semi-final at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium on September 10. The second semi-final between Sri Lanka and Pakistan is scheduled for September 11, with both matches being played in Dubai.

India enter the knockout stage unbeaten. They have also already defeated Pakistan by seven wickets in the group stage, while Bangladesh arrive in the semi-final after recovering from their defeat against Sri Lanka with a crucial win over the UAE.

The tournament final is scheduled for September 13, with the winners of the two semi-finals set to meet for the Women's Asia Cup title.