Bangladesh dominate Nepal to set up U19 Women’s Asia Cup final against India
India finished first with three wins and seven points, while Bangladesh followed closely with three wins and six points.
Bangladesh secured a place in the final of the U19 Women's Asia Cup with a commanding nine-wicket victory over Nepal in their final Super Four match on 20 December in Kuala Lumpur.
Their triumph sets up a title clash against India, scheduled for 23 December at the same venue.
The match at the Bayuemas Oval was shortened to 11 overs per side due to rain. Nepal struggled with the bat, managing only 54 runs for eight wickets in their allotted overs.
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In reply, Bangladesh chased down the modest target with seven balls to spare, losing just one wicket.
Opting to bowl first, Bangladesh captain Sumaiya Akter marshalled her team to an efficient performance in the field. Nepal faltered under pressure, losing early wickets due to disciplined bowling and sharp fielding from Bangladesh.
Four of Nepal's batters were run out, highlighting the hosts' struggles with running between the wickets.
The highest contribution for Nepal came from Sabitri Dhami, who scored 11 off 12 balls, while Puja Mahato partnered her to add 19 runs for the second wicket—the highest partnership of the innings.
For Bangladesh, Farzana Yasmin, Anisa Akter, Fahmida Chhoa, and Habiba Islam each claimed a wicket.
Bangladesh's run chase began strongly, with openers Fahmida and Mosammat Eva putting up a 46-run partnership. Fahmida struck three boundaries in her unbeaten 26 off 32 balls, while Eva added a valuable 18 runs off 21 balls, which included the only six of the match.
Captain Sumaiya Akter chipped in with 10 not out off six balls to seal the victory in 9.5 overs.
Fahmida's all-round performance, which included a wicket for 14 runs and her composed batting, earned her the Player of the Match award.
India and Bangladesh topped the Super Four standings to book their places in the final.
India finished first with three wins and seven points, while Bangladesh followed closely with three wins and six points.
Nepal and Sri Lanka rounded out the table with four and three points, respectively.
