Nahida stars as Bangladesh kick off Asia Cup with commanding win

Left-arm spinner Nahida Akter starred with the ball as Bangladesh made a strong start to their Women’s Asia Cup T20 campaign, securing a convincing 71-run victory over Indonesia in their Group B opener at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium in the UAE.

Defending a target of 130, Bangladesh’s bowlers produced a disciplined performance to dismiss Indonesia for just 58 in 17.3 overs. Nahida led the attack with an impressive 3-15 from her four overs, while pacer Marufa Akter struck twice early to remove both Indonesian openers and put Bangladesh firmly in control.

Earlier, Bangladesh posted 129-8 after being asked to bat first. Sobhana Mostary top-scored with a patient 41 off 42 balls, while Dilara Akter added 27 from 31 deliveries. Shorna Akter provided the late fireworks, smashing an unbeaten 31 off just 18 balls to give Bangladesh a competitive total.

Bangladesh lost Juairiya Ferdous for eight in the third over, but Mostary and Dilara steadied the innings with a 40-run partnership for the second wicket. However, the Tigresses struggled to accelerate during the middle overs.

With Bangladesh at 105-5 in the 17th over, Shorna shifted gears and struck 24 runs from the final three overs to lift the team to a defendable total.

For Indonesia, Ni Kadek Ariani was the standout bowler with 3-28, while Ni Luh Dewi claimed two wickets.

Bangladesh’s bowlers then maintained relentless pressure, taking wickets at regular intervals and denying Indonesia any substantial partnerships. Maria Corazon was their highest scorer with only 12 runs, the sole Indonesian batter to reach double figures.

Bangladesh will face Sri Lanka on September 6 before concluding their group-stage campaign against hosts UAE on September 8.

The top two teams from each group will advance to the semi-finals, scheduled for September 10 and 11, while the tournament final will be played on September 13.