Bangladesh began their Women’s Asia Cup campaign with a commanding 71-run victory over Indonesia in Dubai on Monday, defending a modest total with an impressive bowling display.
Having posted 129 for eight, Bangladesh made the most of the pressure created by a target that looked within Indonesia’s reach. Their bowlers struck regularly and never allowed the chase to gather momentum, eventually dismissing Indonesia for 58 in 17.3 overs.
Bangladesh kept the Indonesian batters under control from the outset. Partnerships never lasted long enough to threaten the total, while wickets continued to fall at regular intervals. The disciplined effort meant Bangladesh could close out the match comfortably despite having been restricted with the bat.
The foundation for the victory had been laid earlier in the day when Bangladesh were asked to bat first.
Their innings began cautiously, with Juairiya Ferdous departing for eight. Dilara Akter and Sobhana Mostary then put together a useful partnership, but Bangladesh struggled to accelerate during the middle overs.
Dilara made 27 from 31 balls before being dismissed, while Mostary held the innings together with a patient 40 off 42. Nigar Sultana added 10 before Bangladesh found themselves needing a strong finish.
Shorna Akter provided exactly that. The all-rounder remained unbeaten on 31 from only 18 balls, striking three fours and a six to inject much-needed urgency into the innings. Bangladesh added 45 runs in the final five overs to reach 129 for eight.
Mostary’s anchoring role and Shorna’s late hitting gave Bangladesh a total they could defend. Indonesia’s Ni Luh Dewi and Ni Kadek Ariani claimed three wickets each, but Bangladesh’s bowlers ultimately made the difference.
The victory gives Bangladesh an encouraging start to their Group B campaign and provides confidence ahead of their remaining matches in the tournament.
