Nisshin, 17 September (H.S.): The Bangladesh women’s cricket team became the first side to qualify for the semifinals of the Asian Games 2026 after their quarter-final against China, scheduled to be played on Thursday, was called off due to a wet outfield.

The impact of poor weather has been evident over the past few days at Korogi Sports Park in Nisshin, located on the outskirts of Nagoya. The playing surface remained wet on Thursday as well, preventing even a single ball from being bowled.

Following the abandonment of the match, Bangladesh advanced to the semifinals under Playing Conditions Rule 16.10.2(b). According to the provision, if a match is abandoned because of rain or other circumstances, the higher-ranked team advances to the next round.

The Bangladesh side, led by captain Nigar Sultana Joty, could now face India in the semifinal. India are scheduled to play their quarter-final against hosts Japan on September 18.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar