India Retain Title as Bangladesh Fall Short Again

The dream of a maiden continental trophy remained elusive for the Bangladesh ‘A’ women’s team as they suffered a convincing 46-run defeat at the hands of their Indian counterparts. In the final of the Asia Cup Rising Stars Tournament held in Bangkok, Thailand, the Tigresses failed to chase down a modest target, succumbing to scoreboard pressure and a disciplined Indian bowling attack.

A Tale of Two Innings

Opting to bat first, India ‘A’ posted a total of 134 for 7 in their allotted 20 hours. At the halfway stage, Bangladeshi supporters harboured genuine hope, sensing that the target was well within reach. Bangladesh’s captain and leg-spinner, Fahima Khatun, led from the front with the ball, claiming an impressive 4 for 25 to keep the Indian scoring rate in check during the middle overs.

However, a pivotal fifth-wicket partnership of 69 runs between Radha Yadav (36) and Tejal Hasabnis (51*) rescued the Indian innings. Hasabnis was particularly clinical, smashing an unbeaten half-century off just 34 deliveries, aided by a missed catch in the final over that allowed her to push the total to a competitive 134.

The Collapse under Pressure

The chase began steadily, with Bangladesh reaching 36 for 1 during the Powerplay. However, the momentum shifted dramatically thereafter. As the required run rate climbed, the batting line-up crumbled. From a relatively stable position of 48 for 3 at the 10-over mark, the team lost their remaining seven wickets for just 40 runs in 55 balls.

No significant partnerships materialised, with the highest stand being a mere 25 runs between openers Shamima Sultana (20) and Sharmin Sultana (18). The Indian spinners, led by Prema Rawat (3 for 12), exploited the slowing pitch to bowl Bangladesh out for 88 in 19.1 overs.

Match Summary Table

Recurring Rivalry

This victory marks India’s second consecutive title in the Rising Stars Tournament. History repeated itself in Bangkok, mirroring the 2023 final in Hong Kong where India ‘A’ similarly defeated Bangladesh ‘A’ to clinch the inaugural trophy. While the Bangladeshi bowlers showed great promise, the technical frailties in the batting department against high-quality spin remain a point of concern for the national selectors.