Pakistan women win Asian Games bronze with 31-run victory over Bangladesh

Pakistan women's cricket team secured the bronze medal at the 2026 Asian Games after defeating Bangladesh by 31 runs in the third-place playoff on Tuesday. The match was played at Korogi Sports Park in Nisshin, Japan. Batting first, Pakistan posted 145 for 8 in their 20 overs. Captain Fatima Sana led the batting effort with a 30-ball 45, which included three sixes and three fours. Opener Gull Feroza contributed 31 off 23 balls. After a strong opening stand of 46 runs, Pakistan's middle order faced a collapse, losing five wickets for 21 runs in a five-over span. However, Fatima Sana and Aliya Riaz staged a recovery, stitching a 67-run partnership off 43 balls. Aliya Riaz scored 25 off 22 deliveries. In reply, Bangladesh were restricted to 114 for 7 in their 20 overs. Pakistan's bowlers, led by right-arm offspinner UmmeHani, took control early. UmmeHani claimed 3 wickets for 10 runs, her best bowling figures in WT20Is, surpassing her previous best of 2 for 28 against Sri Lanka. Tasmia Rubab also provided early breakthroughs. Bangladesh could not recover from a poor start, being reduced to 20 for 3 in 4.3 overs.