ICC Women’s T20 World Cup Qualifier: Bangladesh Women vs Thailand Women – Match Preview

Match Details:

• Date: Wednesday, 28th January 2026
• Venue: Mulpani Cricket Ground
• Start Time: 03:15 AM GMT | 09:00 AM Local | 08:45 AM IST

As the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup Qualifier enters its crucial stage, the clash between Bangladesh Women and Thailand Women promises to be a compelling encounter. With both sides eager to secure a spot in the next phase, the match will test their resolve, skill, and adaptability.

Current Form and Momentum

Bangladesh Women have been the standout performers in Group A, maintaining an unbeaten record through the qualification rounds. Their balanced squad and consistent performances have placed them in a strong position heading into the Super Sixes. Key contributors include Sharmin Akhter, who has been the team's leading run-scorer with 156 runs in four innings, and Rabeya Khan, the top wicket-taker with seven wickets at an economy of 6.18. The all-round contributions from Shorna Akter have also been crucial, as she offers both bat and ball support.

Thailand Women, on the other hand, have had a mixed run. They started strong with two wins but were unable to maintain the momentum, losing their last two matches. Nevertheless, they remain a dangerous side, especially when chasing. Naruemol Chaiwai, their leading run-scorer with 122 runs, and Nattakan Chantam, who has contributed 110 runs, will be key to their batting efforts. Thipatcha Putthawong has been the standout bowler for Thailand, picking up eight wickets at a tight economy rate.

Players to Watch

Bangladesh Women:

• Sharmin Akhter – The leading run-scorer, expected to anchor the innings and take on the bowlers.
• Rabeya Khan – The star pacer with the potential to trouble the top order.
• Shorna Akter – Provides crucial all-round support, capable of both accelerating the innings and picking up wickets.

Thailand Women:

• Naruemol Chaiwai – Consistent with the bat, she can take the attack to the opposition.
• Nattakan Chantam – A key middle-order batter who can change the game with a big score.
• Thipatcha Putthawong – The star bowler, known for her accuracy and ability to take wickets at crucial moments.

Head-to-Head Record (Last 5 Matches)

• Bangladesh Women: 5 wins
• Thailand Women: 0 wins

Despite Thailand's potential, the head-to-head record is heavily in Bangladesh's favor, with the visitors winning all five recent meetings. However, in cricket, form and conditions often play a bigger role than past results.

Venue Insights – Mulpani Cricket Ground (T20s 2022–2026)

• Average 1st Innings Score: 131.0
• Bowling Averages and Economy Rates:
  • Fast Bowlers: Average 18.14; Economy Rate 6.22
  • Spin Bowlers: Average 26.52; Economy Rate 6.63
• Winning Percentage by Batting Order:
  • Batting First: 60%
  • Batting Second: 40%

The pitch at Mulpani has been slightly challenging for batters, with fast bowlers finding more help than spinners. This suggests that a strong start and tight bowling could be the difference in this match.

Squads

Bangladesh Women:

• Nigar Sultana Joty (c)
• Nahida Akter
• Sobhana Mostary
• Farzana Haque
• Sharmin Akhter Supta
• Dilara Akter
• Juairiya Ferdous
• Ritu Moni
• Fahima Khatun
• Shorna Akter
• Rabeya Khan
• Marufa Akter
• Fariha Islam Trisna
• Shanjida Akther Maghla
• Sultana Khatun

Thailand Women:

• Naruemol Chaiwai (c)
• Aphisara Suwanchonrathi
• Chanida Sutthiruang
• Chayanisa Phengpaen
• Koranit Suwanchonrathi
• Nannapat Koncharoenkai
• Nannaphat Chaihan
• Natthakan Chantham
• Onnicha Kamchomphu
• Phannita Maya
• Suleeporn Laomi
• Sunida Chaturongrattana
• Suwanan Khiaoto
• Thanrada Seesawan
• Thipatcha Putthawong

Match Predictions

• Toss Winner: Bangladesh
• Match Winner: Bangladesh
• Top Batter (Runs Scored): Sharmin Akhter (Bangladesh), Nattakan Chantam (Thailand)
• Top Bowler (Wickets Taken): Rabeya Khan (Bangladesh), Thipatcha Putthawong (Thailand)
• Most Sixes: Shorna Akter (Bangladesh), Nattakan Chantam (Thailand)
• Player of the Match: Sharmin Akhter (Bangladesh)
• Team Scores:
  • Bangladesh Batting First: 130+
  • Thailand Batting First: 100+

Final Verdict

This match is expected to be a tight contest, with both teams having the potential to win. However, Bangladesh's superior form, stronger bowling attack, and the confidence of a consistent record give them the slight edge. The Mulpani pitch, which favors fast bowlers, will likely play into Bangladesh's hands, especially with Rabeya Khan and Shorna Akter in good form. Sharmin Akhter could be the difference-maker with the bat, and her all-round contribution might well earn her the Player of the Match honors.

As the countdown begins, cricket fans around the world will be eagerly waiting for what promises to be an exciting clash in the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup Qualifier.
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