Pakistan Women secured the bronze medal at the 2026 Asian Games in Japan on September 22, defeating Bangladesh by 31 runs at Korogi Sports Park. The victory marks Pakistan’s first cricket medal at the Games since winning gold in 2014.
Batting first, Pakistan posted a total of 145/8. The innings was anchored by captain Fatima Sana, who arrived at the crease with the side at 67-5 following a mid-innings collapse. Sana scored 45 off 30 deliveries, hitting three boundaries and three sixes to guide the team to a defendable score. Bangladesh’s chase was subsequently restricted to 114/7 in their 20 overs.
Umm-e-Hani led the bowling effort for Pakistan, recording a clinical spell of 3 wickets for 10 runs across her four overs. Her performance prevented Bangladesh from building momentum in the middle and death overs.
The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) official feed celebrated the win: “Pakistan clinch bronze after beating Bangladesh by 31 runs 🥉 Skipper Fatima Sana top-scored with 45 before Umm-e-Hani shone with the ball, claiming 3-10 in her 4 overs 👏”
Analysis of the result suggests the victory provides redemption for Pakistan, who lost the bronze medal match to these same opponents during the Hangzhou 2023 Games. Sana’s performance is also noted as a significant captain’s knock that stabilized the national side after early wickets fell. For Bangladesh, the defeat ends their campaign without a podium finish, failing to repeat their performance from the previous edition.
The cricket event at the 2026 Asian Games concludes with the gold medal match between India and Sri Lanka.
