As the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2026 enters a decisive phase, Group 1 presents a high-stakes clash between Bangladesh Women and Pakistan Women at Southampton. Both sides find themselves under pressure heading into this fixture, making it a virtual knockout encounter in the race for a place in the semifinals.
Bangladesh currently sit fourth in the group standings with one win and one defeat from their opening two matches, collecting two points despite a net run rate of -1.790. Pakistan, meanwhile, are yet to open their account in the tournament, occupying fifth place after back-to-back defeats and carrying a net run rate of -2.263.
Squads:
Bangladesh Women’s Cricket Team
Nigar Sultana (C, WK), Nahida Akter (VC), Dilara Akter, Fahima Khatun, Fariha Trisna, Juairiya Ferdous, Marufa Akter, Sobhana Mostary, Rabeya Khan, Ritu Moni, Sanjida Akter Meghla, Sharmin Akhter, Shorna Akter, Sultana Khatun, Taj Nehar
Pakistan Women’s Cricket Team
Fatima Sana (C), Aliya Riaz, Ayesha Zafar, Diana Baig, Eyman Fatima, Gull Feroza (WK), Iram Javed, Muneeba Ali (WK), Nashra Sandhu, Natalia Pervaiz, Rameen Shamim, Sadia Iqbal, Sidra Jabeen, Tasmia Rubab, Tuba Hassan
Players to watch out:
Nigar Sultana Joty
Bangladesh skipper Nigar Sultana continues to be the backbone of her side’s batting unit. The wicketkeeper-batter has accumulated 2553 runs from 119 innings at an average of 27.45 and a strike rate of 92.76. Her ability to anchor an innings while accelerating when required makes her one of Bangladesh’s most valuable assets. With the team needing a crucial victory to strengthen their semifinal hopes, Nigar’s leadership and composure at the crease could prove decisive.
Sadia Iqbal
Pakistan’s left-arm spinner Sadia Iqbal remains one of the most dangerous bowlers in women’s T20 cricket. Across her 61 T20Is, she has claimed 77 wickets at an impressive economy rate of 5.88. Her knack for striking during the powerplay and controlling the middle overs gives Pakistan a genuine match-winning weapon. On a Southampton surface that could offer some assistance to spin later in the innings, Sadia’s role will be pivotal in restricting Bangladesh’s batting lineup.
Fatima Sana
Pakistan captain Fatima Sana will once again carry the responsibility of leading from the front with both bat and ball. The all-rounder has amassed 770 runs in 41 T20I innings at an average of 35.00 while maintaining a remarkable strike rate of 139.24. With the ball, she has picked up 53 wickets in 57 outings, underlining her all-round value. Pakistan’s campaign has yet to gain momentum, and Fatima’s performance could be the key factor in keeping their World Cup hopes alive.
Dilara Akter
Bangladesh opener Dilara Akter has emerged as a reliable presence at the top of the order. The aggressive batter has scored 630 runs in her 39 T20Is at a strike rate of 115.59, showcasing her ability to provide brisk starts. Against a quality Pakistan bowling attack, Dilara’s approach in the powerplay could set the tone for Bangladesh’s innings and ease pressure on the middle order.
Pitch:
The Rose Bowl in Southampton traditionally offers a balanced contest between bat and ball. Batters who spend time in the middle are rewarded with true bounce and consistent pace, allowing stroke-makers to play freely. Fast bowlers can expect some assistance with the new ball, particularly under overcast conditions, while spinners often come into the game during the middle overs.
Weather:
Temperatures are expected to hover around 19°C during the match, with partly cloudy skies and only a slight chance of rain. Moderate winds and comfortable humidity levels should ensure an uninterrupted contest, providing ideal playing conditions for both teams.
Fantasy Playing XI:
Nigar Sultana, Dilara Akter, Sharmin Akhter, Fatima Sana, Ayesha Zafar, Aliya Riaz, Ritu Moni, Sadia Iqbal, Marufa Akter, Nahida Akter, Diana Baig
Match Details:
Date – June 20, 2026
Time – 7:00 PM IST
Venue – The Rose Bowl, Southampton
Broadcast – Star Sports Network & JioHotstar
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