Bangladesh missed out on a podium finish at the 2026 Asian Games women's cricket tournament, suffering a 31-run defeat to Pakistan in the third-place playoff match on Tuesday.

Playing at the Seoraksan Sports Park, Pakistan batted first and posted 145 for 8 in their allotted 20 overs.

In response, Bangladesh fell short, managing 114 for 7 in their 20 overs.

Opting to bat, Pakistan initially faced tight, disciplined bowling from the Bangladeshi attack.

However, captain Fatima Sana anchored the innings with a crucial, unbeaten knock of 45 runs off just 30 balls, featuring three boundaries and three sixes. Opener Gul Feroza chipped in with 31 off 23 balls, striking six fours.

Additional contributions came from Aliya Riaz (25 off 22) and opener Shawal Zulfikar (17 off 27), while lower-order batters struggled to build significant momentum.

Ritu Moni, Shorna Akter, and Nahida Akter picked up two wickets each for Bangladesh, with Sanjida Akter Meghla claiming one.

Chasing a target of 146, Bangladesh had a steady start but regularly lost wickets under pressure, ultimately restricted to 114 for 7.

Shamima Akter fought a lone battle for the Tigresses, remaining unbeaten with a team-high 46 runs off 45 balls, which included four boundaries.

Captain Nigar Sultana added 25 runs from 30 deliveries, and Dilara Akter made 12 off 8. The rest of the batting lineup failed to reach double digits.

Umme Hani was the standout bowler for Pakistan, dismantling the Bangladeshi batting order by conceding just 10 runs in her four overs while taking three wickets.

Tasmia Rubab, Fatima Sana, Nashra Sandhu, and Ayesha Zafar each secured a single wicket.

With a disciplined bowling display following a competitive total, Pakistan successfully defended their score to secure the women's cricket bronze medal at the Asian Games.