Bangladesh hold nerve to edge Sri Lanka in tense opener

Bangladesh women’s ‘A’ team secured a narrow four-run victory over their Sri Lanka counterparts in their opening Group B match of the ongoing ACC Women’s Asia Cup Rising Stars 2026 at the Terdthai Cricket Ground in Bangkok on Saturday.

After electing to bat first, Bangladesh got off to a flying start, courtesy of openers Ishma Tanjim (30) and Shamima Sultana (17), who added 48 runs before the partnership was broken by a run-out on the penultimate delivery of the powerplay.

Number three Sarmin Sultana scored 29 off 25 balls -- the second-highest in the innings -- to keep the scoreboard ticking. However, following her dismissal, Bangladesh suffered a batting collapse from 104 for four in the 17th over, losing their last six wickets and eventually being bowled out for 115 in 19.5 overs.

Sri Lanka’s left-arm spinner Sachini Nisansala starred with the ball, claiming four for 14 runs, while Malsha Shehani picked up two wickets.

In reply, Sri Lanka lost five wickets for 65 runs in 13 overs. Ama Kanchana (23) and Sachini Nisansala (20) then put together a crucial 30-run stand for the sixth wicket to bring their side back into contention.

However, Bangladesh bowlers held their nerve in the decisive overs, with left-arm spinner Sanjida Akter Meghla leading the charge. She grabbed two quick wickets and finished with figures of 3-20. Skipper Fahima Khatun and Lata Mondol chipped in with two wickets apiece as Bangladesh restricted Sri Lanka to 111 for nine in their allotted overs to seal the narrow win.

Earlier in the day, hosts Thailand defeated Malaysia by 99 runs in the opening Group B match at the same venue.

Bangladesh will now face Thailand in their second match on Monday, while Sri Lanka will take on Malaysia on the same day.