Published on 08:30 AM, June 21, 2023

Bangladesh to play India today in final

Bangladesh A were reduced to 16 for six in just 3.4 overs in a rain-curtailed game at Mong Kok against their Pakistani counterparts after winning the toss in the semifinal of the Women's Emerging Teams Cup. But despite the setback, the Tigresses held their nerve in a tight match to secure a six-run win against Pakistan in a nine-overs-a-side game and make it through to the final against India, set to be played today.

The semifinal had gone into the reserve day and Pakistan's pace-bowling all-rounder Fatima Sana began with fire, scalping the first three wickets. She sent back Sathi Rani, Sobhana Mostary and skipper Lata Mondal. Dilara Akter then became Anosha Nasir's second victim to leave Bangladesh reeling.

Number seven Rabeya Khatun and number eight Nahida Akter eventually spared the team's blushes with a 37-run partnership as Bangladesh reached 59 for seven in their allotted overs. Rabeya scored 10 while Nahida struck a vital 16-ball 21.

In reply, Pakistan were restricted to 53 for four as Sanjida Akter Meghla defended 13 runs off the final over. Rabeya and Nahida were stars with the ball as well, with Rabeya bagging two for 13 and Nahida producing a wicket for 8 runs.

"We struggled with the bat at the start but our middle-order managed it well. Our bowlers also bowled well which brought the result," captain Lata said.