Bangladesh began their ICC Women’s T20 World Cup qualifying campaign with a 21-run victory over the United States at the Upper Mulpani Cricket Ground in Kathmandu. After losing the toss and batting first, Bangladesh posted 159 for 5 in 20 overs, led by Sharmin Akter’s 63 off 39 balls. Sobhana Mostary added 32 and Swarna Akter contributed 16 runs late in the innings. In reply, the United States managed 137 for 9, falling short despite a strong start from openers Chetna Pagdiyala and Disha Dhingra.

Spinner Nahida Akter claimed four wickets for Bangladesh, including three in the 18th over, while Rabeya Khan took two. For the United States, Ritu Singh scored 33 off 13 balls but could not prevent defeat. Bangladesh’s next group matches are against Papua New Guinea on January 20, Namibia on January 22, and Ireland on January 24.

The top four teams from the qualifying tournament will advance to the main World Cup, with the top three from each group entering the Super Six stage to compete for those spots.