London, June 28: Bangladesh has set a target of 118 runs for South Africa in the 29th match of the Women’s T20 World Cup 2026. This match, taking place at Lord’s, could pave the way for the Indian team to reach the semifinals if Bangladesh secures a victory.
Winning the toss on Sunday, the Bangladesh team opted to bat but could only manage 117 runs, losing 5 wickets in the process. They faced an early setback with Jueiria Firdaus dismissed for a duck on the very first ball.
Following this, the pair of Taj Nehar (1) and Sobhana Mostari could only add 14 runs for the second wicket. Bangladesh lost two wickets by the time their score reached 14. However, Sobhana attempted to stabilize the innings with Sharmine Akhtar, forming a partnership of 56 runs off 62 balls for the third wicket. Unfortunately, once this partnership was broken, Bangladesh struggled again.
Sharmine scored 22 runs off 29 balls before returning to the pavilion, while Sobhana contributed 42 runs off 48 balls, including one six and three fours. Captain Nigar Sultana remained unbeaten with 32 runs off 20 balls, hitting five boundaries.
From the opposition, Nonkululeko Mlaba took 2 wickets for 22 runs, while Marizanne Kapp, Shabnim Ismail, and Nadine de Klerk each claimed one wicket.
In the Group A points table, Bangladesh currently stands fourth with two wins out of four matches. South Africa is in third place with three wins from four matches. India has also won three out of four matches but holds a higher net run rate (+2.268) compared to South Africa (+0.734). Australia leads the table, having won all four of their initial matches.
For India to secure a place in the semifinals, they must win their second match of the day against Australia. A loss for South Africa could solidify their position in the top four. If Bangladesh defeats South Africa in this match, it would significantly ease India’s path to the semifinals.
Under the captaincy of Laura Wolvaardt, South Africa’s lineup includes Tazmin Brits, Anneke Bosch, Dane van Niekerk, Marizanne Kapp, Nadine de Klerk, Chloe Tryon, Sinalo Jafta (wicketkeeper), Shabnim Ismail, Ayabonga Khaka, and Nonkululeko Mlaba.
Meanwhile, the Bangladesh team features Taj Nehar, Jueiria Firdaus, Sharmine Akhtar, Nigar Sultana (wicketkeeper/captain), Sobhana Mostari, Shorna Akhtar, Ritu Moni, Rabia Khan, Nahida Akhtar, Marufa Akhtar, and Shanjida Akhtar Meghla.
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