In a thrilling finale to the three-match T20I series, Bangladesh emerged victorious with a consolation four-wicket win against India at the Sher-e-Bangla National Cricket Stadium. Despite India's 2-1 series triumph, this victory marked only the third time Bangladesh has defeated India in women's T20Is.
Opting to bat first, India struggled to find their footing and were restricted to a below-par total of 102/9. Vice-captain Smriti Mandhana fell early in the second over to off-spinner Sultana, while Shafali Verma's aggressive approach led to her dismissal as she was caught at long-on. Captain Harmanpreet Kaur fought valiantly, contributing 40 runs off 41 balls, and built a crucial 45-run partnership with Jemimah Rodrigues (28). However, India's batting line-up suffered a shocking collapse as they lost their last six wickets for just 11 runs. Deepti Sharma and Minnu Mani were the final wickets to fall, as India finished with a disappointing total.
In response, opener Shamima Sultana anchored Bangladesh's chase with a patient innings of 42 runs off 46 balls. While wickets fell around her, Sultana held her composure and built partnerships with Nigar Sultana (14) and Nahida Akter (10 not out). Ritu Moni's unbeaten seven runs provided the finishing touch as Bangladesh crossed the finish line with ten balls to spare. This victory prevented a clean sweep by India and provided Bangladesh with a positive end to the T20I series.
The focus now shifts to the upcoming three-match ODI series between India and Bangladesh, which will also be held at the Sher-e-Bangla National Cricket Stadium. The first ODI is scheduled to take place on July 16, and both teams will be eager to showcase their skills and claim victory in the limited-overs format.
Brief Scores: India 102/9 in 20 overs (Harmanpreet Kaur 40, Jemimah Rodrigues 28; Rabeya Khan 3/16, Sultana Khatun 2/17) lost to Bangladesh 103/6 in 18.2 overs (Shamima Sultana 42, Devika Vaidya 2/16, Minnu Mani 2/28) by four wickets.