The 2nd match of the Women’s T20 World Cup Global Qualifier 2026 pits the United States against Bangladesh on January 18, 2026. USA stormed into form with thrilling four wicket wins over Scotland and six wicket triumphs against Nepal in warm-ups, while Bangladesh dominated defending totals beating Netherlands by 26 runs and Thailand by 34 runs. At Mulpani Cricket Stadium in Kathmandu, this Group A clash promises fireworks on a balanced surface.
Squads:
United States of American Women’s Cricket Team
Aditiba Chudasama (C), Chetna Pagydyala, Disha Dhingra, Ella Claridge (wk), Gargi Bhogle, Geetika Kodali, Isani Vaghela, Lekha Shetty, Maahi Madhavan, Pooja Ganesh (wk), Ritu Singh, Saanvi Immadi, Sainavi Kambalapalli, Tara Norris, Taranum Chopra
Bangladesh Women’s Cricket Team
Nigar Sultana (C, WK), Sharmin Akhter, Dilara Akter (wk), Marufa Akter, Nahida Akter, Shorna Akter, Juairiya Ferdous (wk), Fargana Hoque, Rabeya Khan, Fahima Khatun, Sultana Khatun, Sanjida Akter Meghla, Sobhana Mostary, Ritu Moni, Fariha Trisna, Sharmin Sultana, Farjana Easmin, Shorifa Khatun, Fatema Jahan Sonia, Habiba Islam
Players to watch out:
Chetna Pagydyala
The left-hand opener and slow left-arm orthodox bowler thrives in 16 T20s with 190 runs at 82 strike rate and 4 wickets, anchoring USA’s top order. Her warm-up heroics 56* vs Nepal and 41 against Scotland highlight match winning grit; on this bouncy start, she’ll target Bangladesh’s middle-order while building innings.
Taranum Chopra
This rising 19-year-old all-rounder blends right-hand batting with right-arm off breaks in 5 WT20Is, grabbing 4 wickets (best 2/8). Her 3-wicket haul vs Nepal in warm-ups shows maturity; expect her spin to exploit the pitch’s later grip against Bangladesh’s batters.
Shorna Akter
The dynamic 19-year-old right-hand batter and leg-spinner boasts 310 runs and 14 wickets in 35 WT20Is (best spell 5/8). In warm-ups, she scored 23 and took 1 wicket vs Thailand, her leg-spin variations will challenge USA early, while her batting adds depth on a slowing track.
Nigar Sultana Joty
Captain and wicketkeeper with 2,162 runs in 109 WT20Is at 89 strike rate, Nigar is Bangladesh’s heartbeat. Warm-up gems of 75* vs Netherlands and 28 against Thailand underscore her dominance; her sharp glovework and leadership could dismantle USA’s momentum.
Pitch:
Mulpani Cricket Stadium offers a balanced surface, backing batters and bowlers alike. Pacers enjoy early pace and bounce with good carry; it slows later, aiding spinners with grip and turn for competitive scores.
Weather:
Kathmandu delivers ideal qualifier conditions with minimum 6°C to maximum 18°C, 0% precipitation, gentle 5 km/h winds, and 47% humidity. Clear skies promise an uninterrupted day of action.
Fantasy Playing XI:
Nigar Sultana, Chetna Pagydyala, Shorna Akter, Taranum Chopra, Sobhana Mostary, Marufa Akter, Tara Norris, Nahida Akter, Ritu Moni, Lekha Shetty, Sainavi Kambalapalli
Match Details:
Date – January 18, 2026
Time – 12:45 PM IST
Venue – Mulpani Cricket Stadium, Kathmandu
Broadcast – The games will be live-streamed on the FanCode app and website.
Loves all things female cricket