Bangladesh reach Asia Cup semis

Bangladesh secured their place in the Asia Cup 2026 semi-finals with a 34-run victory over the United Arab Emirates after defending a modest total with an impressive bowling display in Dubai.

Defending 103, Bangladesh restricted the UAE to 69/9 in their 20 overs at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, with their bowlers delivering a clinical performance to seal two crucial points.

Rabeya Khan led the charge with the ball, finishing with figures of 3/14 from her four overs. Marufa Akter and Nahida Akter claimed two wickets each, while Sultana Khatun and Fahima Khatun also took a wicket apiece.

Earlier, the UAE won the toss and opted to bowl first. They made an early breakthrough as Suraksha Kotte struck twice in the powerplay before adding another wicket later in the innings as Bangladesh struggled to build momentum.

Juairiya Ferdous scored 16 and captain Nigar Sultana contributed 23, while Sharmin Akhter top-scored with 38 as Bangladesh were bowled out for 103, their lowest total of the tournament.

However, Bangladesh’s bowlers more than made up for their batting struggles, keeping the UAE under pressure throughout the chase and completing a 34-run victory.

The result confirmed Bangladesh as the fourth semi-finalist of the tournament. Nigar Sultana’s side will face India in the semi-final, while defending champions Sri Lanka will take on Pakistan for a place in the final.