Bangladesh eliminated from U-19 Women's T20 World Cup after heavy loss to India
India chased down a modest target of 65 in just 7.1 overs, securing their place in the semi-finals alongside Australia from Group 1.
Bangladesh's hopes of reaching the semi-finals of the ICC Under-19 Women's T20 World Cup came to an end on 26 January after an eight-wicket loss to India in the Super Six stage in Kuala Lumpur.
India chased down a modest target of 65 in just 7.1 overs, securing their place in the semi-finals alongside Australia from Group 1.
Having won both group-stage matches to qualify for the Super Six, Bangladesh faced a must-win scenario against India.
With India already two points ahead, a win for the favourites meant an unassailable lead in the standings, rendering Bangladesh's final match against the West Indies inconsequential.
Winning the toss, India opted to field, and their bowlers quickly dismantled the Bangladeshi batting line-up.
Struggling against disciplined bowling, Bangladesh's top five batters failed to reach double figures. Captain Sumaiya Akter (21 not out) and Jannatul Mawa (14) added 31 runs for the sixth wicket, offering some resistance.
However, Mawa's dismissal in the 17th over left Bangladesh at 53, and the remaining batters added only 11 runs as they limped to 64 for 8 in 20 overs. Vaishnavi Sharma led India's attack, claiming three wickets.
Bangladesh's innings was marked by an inability to find the boundary. In fact, the lone four of the innings came from Sumaiya Akter in the 11th over. This was their lowest-ever total in a Women's T20 World Cup match.
In response, India's openers, particularly Gongadi Trisha, showcased their dominance. Trisha smashed eight fours in her 40 off 31 balls, taking the game out of Bangladesh's reach. Anisa Akter Sobha managed to dismiss Indian wicketkeeper-batter Kamalini in the fourth over, and Habiba Islam Pinky dismissed Trisha when India were just four runs from victory.
However, Saanika Chalke (11 not out) and Niki Prasad (5 not out) completed the chase with ease.
India wrapped up the game with eight wickets in hand, needing only 43 balls to reach the target. This victory not only secured their semi-final spot but also ended Bangladesh's campaign.
Bangladesh will face the West Indies in their final Super Six match on 28 January. However, the match will now be a formality, as neither team can progress to the next stage.