In a thrilling encounter at the Terdthai Cricket Ground in Bangkok, Bangladesh A Women secured their spot as the first team to qualify for the semi-finals of the Women’s Asia Cup Rising Stars 2025/26. In a match that fluctuated until the final over, Bangladesh A managed to edge out Thailand Women by three wickets. It was a classic low-scoring scrap where every run felt like ten, ultimately decided by a composed chase that reached 104/7 in response to Thailand’s 103/9.
Thailand won the toss and chose to bat, but they found the going tough against a very disciplined Bangladeshi bowling attack. The Thai openers struggled to find their rhythm early on, with Arrikan Phuengkho falling for just 1. However, Nannapat Koncharoenkai provided some much-needed resistance, top-scoring for her side with a patient 34 off 38 balls. She found a steady partner in Natthakan Chantham (24 off 34), and together they stitched a 43-run partnership that looked to be setting a solid foundation.
The momentum shifted sharply during the middle overs as Bangladesh’s spinners began to tighten the noose. Shorifa Khatun was the pick of the bowlers, finishing with clinical figures of 2/17, while Fahima Khatun and Sanjida Akter Meghla also struck vital blows. Thailand’s middle order crumbled under the pressure, losing five wickets for just 25 runs. Despite a few late boundaries from Phannita Maya and Onnicha Kamchomphu, the hosts were restricted to a modest 103/9 from their 20 overs.
The chase for Bangladesh A began in disastrous fashion, turning what seemed like a simple task into a mountain to climb. Thailand’s Thipatcha Putthawong produced a sensational opening spell, claiming 3/25 and leaving the visitors reeling at 11/3 within the first four overs. With the top order back in the dugout, the pressure was immense, but the experienced Shamima Sultana stepped up to steady the ship with a vital 26 off 29 balls.
As the match entered its final stages, Lata Mondal anchored one end with a gritty 30 off 40 balls, ensuring Bangladesh didn’t lose their way entirely. However, when she fell in the 19th over, the game was still very much in the balance. It was Farjana Easmin who ultimately became the hero of the hour. Coming in with the game on the line, she played a fearless cameo of 23 off just 15 balls, including a massive six that broke the back of the required rate.
In a nail-biting finish, Bangladesh A reached the target with just one ball to spare, finishing at 104/7. Farjana’s composure under fire earned her the Player of the Match award and ensured her team’s progression in the tournament. For Thailand, it was a heartbreaking loss after a spirited defensive effort with the ball, but they will take confidence from how close they pushed a formidable Bangladesh A side.
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