Sports Desk:

After defeating Sri Lanka in their first match, the Bangladesh U-19 women’s team had already secured their spot in the Super Four of the ACC U-19 Women’s Asia Cup. On Tuesday, in Kuala Lumpur, they crushed Malaysia to emerge as Group A champions and advance to the semifinals.

Batting first, Bangladesh posted 149 for 5 in their innings. In response, Malaysia were bowled out for just 29 runs in 14.5 overs, giving Bangladesh a massive 120-run victory.

None of the Malaysian batters managed to reach double digits. Their top scorer was opener Nur Alia Binti Mohamad Hairun, who made 5 runs. Three batters were dismissed for ducks.

Bangladesh’s bowlers also conceded 12 extras, slightly boosting Malaysia’s total.

Off-spinner Nishita Akter starred with the ball, taking 5 wickets for just 3 runs in 3.5 overs.

Medium-pacer Habiba Islam claimed 3 wickets for 5 runs, while leg-spinner Anisha Akter took 2 wickets for 5 runs.

For Bangladesh, number four batter Jannatul Mawa remained unbeaten on 45 off 45 balls, the highest score of the innings. Coming in at number seven, Sadia Akter played a quick cameo, scoring 31 runs off 19 balls.

After losing 5 wickets for 87 runs, Mawa and Sadia added 62 runs in 44 balls for the sixth wicket.

Openers Fahmida Chhoya (26 off 21 balls) and Mosammat Eva (19 off 16 balls) provided a solid start, putting up a 45-run partnership.

In the Super Four, Bangladesh will face India and Nepal, with Sri Lanka being the fourth team. The top two teams from the Super Four standings after matches on December 19 and 20 will qualify for the final, which is scheduled for December 22.