India cruised past Bangladesh by eight wickets to seal a semi-final spot at the Under-19 Women’s Twenty20 World Cup in Kuala Lumpur Sunday.
India delivered a commanding performance, restricting Bangladesh to a mere 64 runs before chasing down the target with ease in just 7.1 overs.
Three teams are now assured of their spot in the final four: India and Australia from Group 1 and South Africa from Group 2.
England and Nigeria are currently best-placed to seal the remaining qualifying spot.
Wet weather in the Malaysian capital delayed the highly anticipated clash between India and Bangladesh, with rain threatening to force an abandonment.
However, the cricket gods showed mercy, allowing play to resume and ensuring a full spectacle.
India won the toss and chose to field, immediately putting Bangladesh under pressure by taking a wicket on the third ball of the match.
The Indian bowlers maintained their dominance, either claiming wickets or restricting runs, leaving Bangladesh reeling at 23/5 by the end of the 10th over.
Skipper Sumaiya Akter and Jannatul Mawa displayed resilience for Bangladesh, putting together a 31-run partnership before Vaishnavi Sharma made a crucial impact with two wickets in the 17th over.
Vaishnavi was the standout bowler, finishing with impressive figure of 3/15, while Shabnam, Joshitha VJ, and Trisha Gongadi each chipped in with a wicket.
India made light work of the chase, facing no resistance from the Bangladesh bowlers.
Trisha Gongadi led the charge with a blazing 40 off 31 balls, featuring an impressive eight boundaries.
Habiba Islam Pinky and Anisa Akter Soba managed to pick up a wicket each, but it was not enough to prevent Bangladesh from suffering a heavy defeat.
Vaishnavi was awarded player of the match.
India have one game remaining against Scotland.
Bangladesh are unable to make it out of the Super 6 stage regardless of the result in their final match against the West Indies.
BRIEF SCORE
Bangladesh U-19 women 64/8 (Sumaiya 21*, Vaishnavi 3/15) lost to India U-19 women 66/2 in 7.1 overs (Trisha 40, Sanika 11*) by 8 wickets
