Bangladesh Women have secured a place in the semi-finals of the Women’s Asia Cup T20 despite another disappointing batting performance, with their bowlers playing a key role in a 34-run victory over the United Arab Emirates.

The win in their final Group B match at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium took Bangladesh to four points from three games, with two wins and one defeat, securing the runners-up spot in the group.

Bangladesh Women will now face Group A champions India in the semi-final on Thursday (September 10).

Batting first after losing the toss, Bangladesh suffered an early setback as opener Dilara Akter was dismissed off the third ball without scoring. Sobhana Mostary also departed for just three, leaving Bangladesh at 8-2.

Captain Nigar Sultana Joty helped steady the innings, putting together a 29-run partnership with Juwairiya Ferdous and a further 15-run stand with Sharmin Akter. Juwairiya made 16 while Joty scored 23 before both were dismissed.

Bangladesh then slipped to 55-6 after Sorna Akter and Fahima Khatun were dismissed for golden ducks. Sharmin and Nahida Akter rescued the innings with a 42-run seventh-wicket partnership off 43 balls.

Sharmin top-scored with 38 off 31 balls, including three fours, while Nahida remained unbeaten on 16 and Rabeya Khan on three. UAE bowler Suraksha Kotte took three wickets for 11 runs.

In reply, UAE struggled against Bangladesh’s disciplined bowling and were reduced to 38-5. They eventually finished on 69-9 in 20 overs, with only two batters reaching double figures. Hina Hotchandani top-scored with 18.

Leg-spinner Rabeya Khan was the standout bowler for Bangladesh, taking 3-14. Marufa Akter and Nahida Akter claimed two wickets each, while Sultana Khatun and Fahima Khatun took one apiece.

Nahida Akter was named Player of the Match.

Bangladesh Women will now turn their attention to the semi-final against India, with a place in the Women’s Asia Cup final at stake.