India Women strengthened their chances of reaching the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2026 semi-finals with a five-wicket victory over Bangladesh Women at Old Trafford, Manchester, on June 25.
Chasing a modest target of 137, India reached 139/5 in 16.5 overs, sealing victory with 19 balls to spare. Opener Shafali Verma led the charge with a blistering 53 off 31 balls, while captain Harmanpreet Kaur remained unbeaten to guide her side home.
India’s Fielding Woes Give Bangladesh Early Momentum
After opting to bowl first, India endured a frustrating start in the field. Three catches were dropped in the space of four deliveries, allowing Bangladesh openers to capitalize and build momentum during the powerplay.
Juairiya Ferdous took full advantage of the reprieves, scoring 33 runs, while Sobhana Mostary contributed 22. Bangladesh reached a competitive position before India’s bowlers fought back strongly in the latter stages.
Radha Yadav and Shree Charani Trigger Bangladesh Collapse
India’s spin attack once again proved decisive. Radha Yadav finished with impressive figures of 3/28, while world No.1 T20I bowler Shree Charani continued her remarkable tournament with another impactful spell.
Bangladesh lost five wickets for just 28 runs in the final four overs as India restricted them to 136/8 in 20 overs.
Nigar Sultana scored 32 runs, but Bangladesh failed to accelerate in the death overs against India’s disciplined spin unit.
Shafali Gives India Flying Start
India’s chase got off to a flying start thanks to Shafali Verma. After receiving an early life on four, the opener dominated the Bangladesh attack with aggressive strokeplay.
She smashed seven boundaries and one six during the powerplay as India raced to 63 runs in the first six overs. Shafali reached her half-century in just 29 deliveries before being stumped for 53.
Late Wobbles Before Harmanpreet Seals Victory
Despite the strong start, India once again showed signs of vulnerability in the middle order. Richa Ghosh, Yastika Bhatia and Jemimah Rodrigues departed after useful contributions, allowing Bangladesh a brief opening.
Rodrigues played an important cameo of 26 runs, including a six and three boundaries, to ease the pressure before Harmanpreet Kaur and Deepti Sharma completed the chase comfortably.
What This Means for India
The victory lifts India to second place in Group 1 and keeps their semi-final hopes firmly alive. However, their biggest challenge awaits on Sunday when they face Australia in a crucial clash that could determine their knockout fate.
Bangladesh remain mathematically alive in the competition but now face an uphill battle heading into their final group-stage match against South Africa.
Match Summary
- Bangladesh Women: 136/8 (20 overs)
- India Women: 139/5 (16.5 overs)
- Result: India Women won by 5 wickets
- Top Scorer (India): Shafali Verma – 53
- Top Scorer (Bangladesh): Juairiya Ferdous – 33
- Best Bowler: Radha Yadav – 3/28
For breaking news and live news updates, like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter and Instagram. Read more on Latest Sports on thefoxdaily.com.
COMMENTS 0