Manchester – India boosted their chances of reaching the semifinals of the ICC Women's T20 World Cup after defeating Bangladesh by five wickets at Old Trafford on Thursday.
Chasing a target of 137, India reached 137-5 in just 16.5 overs, with opener Shafali Verma leading the innings with a quickfire 53 off 34 deliveries.
Earlier, Bangladesh posted 136-8 after being put in to bat. India's spin attack once again proved decisive, with Radha Yadav claiming 3-28 and Shree Charani taking 2-21.
The victory moves India to six points in Group A, level with South Africa and just behind unbeaten leaders Australia.
India's hopes of qualifying for the semifinals now hinge on Sunday's final group-stage match against six-time champions Australia at Lord's. While India currently hold a superior net run rate to South Africa, they face the tournament's strongest side in a must-win encounter.
South Africa also remained firmly in contention after registering an emphatic 88-run victory over the Netherlands.
Opening batter Tazmin Brits starred with an unbeaten 114 from 69 balls, recording her maiden T20 International century as South Africa amassed 208-1. Captain Laura Wolvaardt contributed 45 during a 121-run opening partnership before Annerie Dercksen added an unbeaten 37 from just 16 deliveries.
The Netherlands were unable to challenge the imposing target, leaving South Africa level on six points with India heading into the final round of Group A fixtures.
Bangladesh, currently on four points, retain only a slim mathematical chance of progressing and must defeat South Africa in their final group match while relying on other results to go their way.
With Australia already assured of a semifinal place, the remaining qualification berth from Group A is expected to be decided in Sunday's decisive matches at Lord's.
