Bangladesh fast bowler Marufa Akter has called on supporters to back her side as they prepare to face India in the Women’s Asia Cup semi-final in Dubai on Thursday.
The seamer has emerged as the principal tactical threat against the tournament favourites, claiming seven wickets across three group-stage innings.
Operating with a 3.27 economy rate, her early-over movement remains the optimum weapon to disrupt an Indian top order that has anchored three consecutive victories.
Powerplay Lethality Underpins Semi-Final Hopes
Bangladesh secured their progression following a 34-run victory over the United Arab Emirates.
Akter dismantled the run chase with two early strikes in a spell of two for nine, complementing the middle-order partnerships that rescued their innings.
The fixture presents a formidable challenge against an Indian setup focused on pitch readiness, with India winning their last eight T20 international encounters against Bangladesh.
Speaking in a Bangladesh Cricket Board video shared by CricTracker, Akter said: “Personally, I am very happy to make the semis. Pray that I can continue contributing to the team personally, just as I have been doing. I also hope the senior players can continue to support the team in the same way. Please keep us all in your prayers so that we can finish tomorrow’s match on a high note.”
Bangladesh must replicate their 2018 Asia Cup final triumph over India to reach Sunday’s showpiece in Dubai.
