Sri Lanka edge Bangladesh to reach Asia Cup semi-finals

Harshitha steadied the innings alongside Nilakshika Silva, keeping Sri Lanka within reach of the target through a tense middle period. Bangladesh appeared to regain control when Marufa returned to dismiss Nilakshika for 18, leaving Sri Lanka needing 33 from the final four overs.

Harshitha responded by attacking Ritu Moni, hitting a four and six in the 18th over. She added 11 in the next over, including another six from the final ball, to put Sri Lanka firmly in control.

They completed the chase with four wickets and four balls remaining, with Harshitha unbeaten on 48. Earlier, Bangladesh made a brisk start after being put into bat, with Juairiya Ferdous and Dilara Akter taking the score to around 30 without loss after five overs.

Sugandika Kumari broke the opening stand by dismissing Ferdous, while Chamudi Praboda removed Dilara for 25. Kavisha Dilhari then trapped Bangladesh captain Nigar Sultana Joty leg before wicket for four before Sobhana Mostary offered resistance with 34.

Praboda eventually stumped Mostary and later dismissed Shorna Akter to finish with three for 21. Bangladesh crossed 100 but struggled to accelerate in the closing overs, scoring just 12 runs between the 17th and 19th overs before Fahima Khatun’s late hitting took them to 114.

Sri Lanka’s victory gives them four wins from four group matches and a place in the semi-finals. Bangladesh will face the United Arab Emirates next, knowing a victory could keep their hopes of reaching the knockout stage alive.