Bangladesh dominates Nepal to clinch a spot in the U-19 Women’s Asia Cup final

Bangladesh secured their place in the final of the Under-19 Women’s Asia Cup with a commanding 9-wicket victory over Nepal on Friday in Kuala Lumpur.

The young Tigresses bounced back impressively from their earlier defeat against India in the Super Four stage opener.

In a rain-shortened match reduced to 11 overs per side, Nepal could only post 54 runs, which Bangladesh chased down with ease in 9.5 overs. The final against India is set to take place on Sunday at the same venue.

After opting to field first, Bangladesh immediately put Nepal under pressure with disciplined bowling and sharp fielding. Nepal struggled due to a mix of tight bowling and poor running between the wickets, resulting in three run-outs within the first six overs.

Captain Puja Mahato and Sabitri Dhami offered some resistance with a 19-run partnership for the second wicket. Dhami, the only player to reach double figures, scored 11 off 12 balls.

Bangladesh’s bowlers shared the wickets, with Farjana Easmin, Anisa Akter, Fahomida Choya, and Habiba Islam each picking up one.

In pursuit of the modest target, Bangladesh's openers, Fahomida Choya and Mosammat Eva, provided a strong start. Fahomida played confidently, striking boundaries in consecutive overs, while Eva smashed the match’s only six in the fifth over.

The duo put up a 46-run opening stand before Eva was bowled by Kusum Godar for 18 off 21 balls in the eighth over. Fahomida, however, remained unbeaten on 26 off 32 balls, supported by Sumaiya Akhter, who added 10 runs off six balls, to seal the win.

Fahomida Choya’s all-round performance earned her the Player of the Match award.

Match Summary:
Nepal U-19: 54/8 in 11 overs (Dhami 11, Mahato 9; Farzana 1/13, Anisa 1/10, Fahomida 1/14, Habiba 1/11)
Bangladesh U-19: 58/1 in 9.5 overs (Fahomida 26*, Eva 18, Sumaiya 10*)
Result: Bangladesh won by 9 wickets.
Player of the Match: Fahomida Choya