DUBAI — Bangladesh produced a sensational bowling display to defend a paltry total of 103 runs, defeating the United Arab Emirates by 34 runs in Dubai to seal their place in the Women’s T20 Asia Cup 2026 semifinals. With this victory, Nigar Sultana’s side finished second in Group B and set up a high-stakes semifinal clash against an undefeated Indian team.

Bowlers Deliver Defensive Masterclass

Defending a low score of 103/7, the Bangladeshi attack left no room for error, relentlessly pressuring the hosts from the opening over. Leg-spinner Rabeya Khan spearheaded the assault, registering match-winning figures of 3 for 14 in her four overs.

She received stellar support from pacewoman Marufa Akter and left-arm spinner Nahida Akter, who snapped up two wickets apiece to dismantle the UAE batting order. Sultana Khatun and Fahima Khatun also picked up a wicket each as the UAE collapsed to 69/9 in their allotted 20 overs, falling comfortably short of the target.

Battling Recovery with the Bat

Earlier in the evening, Bangladesh endured a nightmare start after being put in to bat by the UAE. Suraksha Kotte ripped through Bangladesh's top order with a fine spell of 3 for 11, leaving the opposition reeling at 55 for 6.

Top-scorer Sharmin Akhter (38 off 31 balls) and skipper Nigar Sultana (23 off 28 balls) provided essential middle-order stability. A crucial 42-run partnership for the seventh wicket between Sharmin and Nahida Akter (16) pushed Bangladesh past the 100-run mark, giving their bowlers a total to fight for.

Semifinal Lineup Confirmed

The result officially completes the semifinal roster for the tournament.

Bangladesh will square off against Group A toppers India in the first semifinal at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium on Thursday, September 10. Meanwhile, defending champions Sri Lanka—who topped Group B—will face arch-rivals Pakistan in the second semifinal on Friday, September 11.