Pakistan Clinch Women’s Cricket Bronze at 2026 Asian Games with 31-Run Victory Over Bangladesh

Pakistan Women claimed the bronze medal in the women’s cricket event at the 2026 Asian Games, defeating Bangladesh by 31 runs in the third-place playoff at Korogi Sports Park, Nisshin, on Tuesday. Pakistan scored 145/8 in their 20 overs and subsequently restricted Bangladesh to 114/7.

Chasing first, Pakistan compiled a challenging total of 145 despite regular wickets falling. Gull Feroza provided an aggressive opening with 31 off 23 balls, including six boundaries, while captain Fatima Sana anchored the innings with a crucial 45 off 30 balls, striking three fours and three sixes.

Pakistan faltered at 67/5 before Fatima Sana and Aliya Riaz stabilized the batting. The duo added 67 runs for the sixth wicket, with Riaz contributing 25 off 22 balls, helping Pakistan reach their final total of 145/8 from their 20 overs.

Bangladesh’s chase stalled early as they collapsed to 20/3. Nigar Sultana and Sharmin Akhter attempted to rebuild the innings, putting on 47 runs for the fourth wicket. Nigar scored 25 from 30 balls, while Sharmin remained not out on 46 off 45. However, Bangladesh could not sustain the required run rate and were bowled out for 114/7.

Umm-e-Hani emerged as Pakistan’s standout bowler, claiming figures of 3/10 in four overs. She played a pivotal role in dismantling Bangladesh’s momentum and ensuring Pakistan successfully defended their total.

This bronze medal marks Pakistan women’s third Asian Games cricket medal, following gold victories in 2010 and 2014. The result also avenges their bronze-medal playoff defeat against Bangladesh at the 2022 Asian Games held in Hangzhou in 2023.

In the gold medal match, India women will face Sri Lanka women, with Harmanpreet Kaur and her side looking to defend their title.

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