Bangladesh face a tough challenge against India in the Women’s Asia Cup semi-final on Thursday night, with a place in the final at stake at Dubai International Cricket Stadium.
A defeat to Sri Lanka had left Bangladesh’s route to the last four uncertain, but they secured their semi-final place by beating the UAE in their final group game after a difficult batting display.
India will start as favourites, but Bangladesh pacer Marufa Akter remains confident about their chances.
“We have a match against India tomorrow. If we can win, InshaAllah, we will play in the final,” Marufa said.
She also urged fans to pray for the team. “Please pray for us. I hope I can continue contributing in the same way, and that our senior players can also keep helping the team. With your prayers, InshaAllah, we can win tomorrow.”
Marufa was Bangladesh’s standout performer against Sri Lanka, taking 3 for 21 from four overs to give the team a chance while defending just 114. That effort lifted her 19 places to a career-best 18th in the latest bowling rankings, the highest among Bangladesh bowlers.
