The high stakes contest brings together two former champions, with India entering the knockout stage after an unbeaten Group A campaign. India are set to take on Bangladesh in the opening semifinal of the Women’s Asia Cup 2026 at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium on Thursday, September 10.
India, meanwhile, won all three of their group matches and will start the contest as favourites. Current tournament schedules confirm the same timing and venue. The batting department, however, has provided some concern. Pratika Rawal is still looking for a substantial contribution, while captain Harmanpreet Kaur and wicketkeeper batter Richa Ghosh have yet to produce their best in the tournament. Smriti Mandhana has already registered a century in the competition and remains one of the side’s biggest threats, while Shafali Verma has also contributed with a fifty against Thailand and a promising start against Hong Kong, China. Bangladesh will look towards a number of experienced performers as they attempt to reach the final. Nahida Akter has been particularly influential, collecting two Player of the Match awards in three games. Captain Nigar Sultana, Sharmin Akhter, Rabeya Khan and Marufa Akter are also expected to play important roles against a strong Indian side. When And Where Is The Semifinal?
India will therefore expect more from their experienced batters in the semifinal. Bangladesh secured their semifinal berth after defeating the United Arab Emirates by 34 runs on Tuesday. The first semifinal is scheduled to begin at 08:00 PM IST, with the toss taking place 30 minutes earlier. Bangladesh are the 2018 champions, making Thursday’s contest particularly significant given their history in the competition. The first semifinal of the Women’s Asia Cup 2026 between India and Bangladesh will be played at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium on Thursday, September 10.
