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Clash in Kathmandu: Bangladesh Women Dominate USA in T20 Qualifier
BANGLADESH WOMEN
(20.0 Overs)
USA WOMEN
Global Qualifier 2026
In a high-stakes encounter at the Mulpani Cricket Stadium in Kathmandu, the Bangladesh Women’s national cricket team showcased why they are the favorites to secure a spot in the upcoming T20 World Cup. Facing off against a determined USA Women’s side, the Tigresses put on a masterclass in aggressive batting and strategic depth during Match 2 of the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup Global Qualifier 2026.
Winning the toss, the USA Women elected to field first, hoping to exploit early moisture on the surface. However, the Bangladeshi openers had other plans. Dilara Akter set the tempo early, smashing a brisk 17 off just 7 deliveries, while Juairiya Ferdous anchored the other end. The middle order, led by captain Nigar Sultana Joty, capitalized on the platform, guiding the team to a formidable total of 159/5 in their allotted 20 overs.
Match Breakdown: Batting Masterclass
The Bangladeshi innings was defined by calculated risks. Despite the USA bowlers—led by Geetika Kodali and Aditiba Chudasama—trying to maintain tight lines, the experience of the Tigresses was evident. Shorna Akter’s late-innings cameo provided the necessary fireworks to push the score past the 150-mark, a psychological barrier on the Kathmandu track.
| Top Performers | Runs/Wickets | Strike Rate/Eco |
|---|---|---|
| Nigar Sultana Joty (BAN) | 42 (34) | 123.52 |
| Shorna Akter (BAN) | 31* (19) | 163.15 |
| Dilara Akter (BAN) | 17 (7) | 242.85 |
| Geetika Kodali (USA) | 1/28 | 7.00 |
USA’s Response and The Road Ahead
Chasing 160 is never an easy task against a world-class spin attack. Bangladesh’s Nahida Akter and Shorna Akter utilized the grip on the Mulpani surface to keep the USA batters in check. While the USA team has shown significant improvement over the last year, bridging the gap against a seasoned Full Member nation remains their biggest challenge in Group A.
With this performance, Bangladesh cements its top spot in the group, which also features Ireland and Namibia. For the USA, the focus shifts to their upcoming matches where they must win to keep their World Cup dreams alive. Stay tuned to NOLEZ NEWS for ball-by-ball updates and post-match analysis.