Nigar credits Shorna-Nahida stand for Bangladesh's semi-final rescue

Bangladesh captain Nigar Sultana credited a crucial partnership between Sharmin Akter and Nahida Akter for rescuing her side from a major batting collapse and helping secure a place in the Women's Asia Cup semi-finals.

Bangladesh were struggling at 55 for six after being sent in by the United Arab Emirates, with the hosts' bowlers making full use of a slow Dubai surface.

Sharmin and Nahida then combined for 42 runs to lift Bangladesh to 103 for seven, a total that eventually proved enough for a 34-run victory.

"Sharmin batted really well in the middle and Nahida helped her out with the partnership," Nigar said after the match. She added that Bangladesh had expected a slow surface but found it even slower than anticipated.

The captain said the team had identified 100-plus as a competitive target after losing early wickets. The bowlers then delivered, restricting UAE to 69 for nine and completing Bangladesh's qualification for the last four.

Nahida, who was named Player of the Match after taking two wickets and contributing 16 unbeaten runs, admitted Bangladesh were around 20 runs short of their ideal total.

The victory sets up a semi-final against India on Thursday, giving Bangladesh little time to address their batting concerns.
Nigar acknowledged the challenge, describing India as a strong side and saying Bangladesh would need to produce their best performance.

For Bangladesh, the UAE victory was ultimately built on two contrasting strengths: a batting rescue when the innings appeared to be slipping away, followed by another disciplined display from their bowlers.