Bangladesh breaks losing streak with win over Thailand in Women's Asia Cup

Bangladesh ended their ten-match losing streak in T20Is with a convincing seven-wicket win against Thailand in the Women's Asia Cup 2024. This victory, which took place in Dambulla, gave Bangladesh their first points in the tournament and kept their hopes for a semi-final spot alive.

Legspinner Rabeya Khan and seam-bowling allrounder Ritu Moni played crucial roles in restricting Thailand to a modest 96 for 9 on a spin-friendly surface. Rabeya's impressive four-wicket haul and Moni's two key scalps were instrumental in stifling the Thai batters. Nattaya Boochatham top-scored for Thailand with 40 runs off 41 balls.

In response, Bangladesh chased down the target in 17.3 overs, thanks to a solid innings from Murshida Khatun. Returning to the side after missing the previous game, Murshida scored 50 off 55 balls, ensuring Bangladesh's victory.

Aphisara Suwanchonrathi, who had batted at No. 11 in her last two innings, was promoted to open with Boochatham. However, the move backfired as Suwanchonrathi struggled, scoring just 6 runs off 20 balls. Thailand managed only 25 runs in the powerplay.

Rabeya Khan struck twice in her first over, removing both Suwanchonrathi and Nannapat Koncharoenkai, the latter falling for a duck. Moni then joined the attack, taking two wickets to leave Thailand reeling at 38 for 3. Rabeya continued her dominance, dismissing Suwanan Khiaoto and Boochatham to further dent Thailand's innings. Debutant left-arm spinner Sabikun Nahar Jesmin also contributed with two late wickets.

Murshida Khatun, whose last T20I half-century came in December 2023 against South Africa, returned to form at a crucial time. Despite a slow start, she steadied the innings and hit eight fours to bring up her fourth T20I fifty. She formed a vital 60-run partnership with Ishma Tanjim for the second wicket. Although Bangladesh lost two wickets late in the game, they comfortably reached the target without needing a rescue act from captain Nigar Sultana.

This victory marked a significant turnaround for Bangladesh, boosting their confidence and keeping them in contention for the semi-finals of the Women's Asia Cup 2024.