Indian women's cricket teamSeven-time champions India will start as overwhelming favourites against a gritty Bangladesh in the first semifinal of the 2026 Women’s Asia Cup at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium on Thursday.Beyond the on-field contest, India-Bangladesh cricket ties continue to carry a political backdrop. Ever since the regime change in Bangladesh a couple of years ago, relations between New Delhi and Dhaka have been strained.The impact has spilled into cricket. The BCCI withdrew Bangladesh left-arm pacer Mustafizur Rahman, signed by Kolkata Knight Riders, from IPL 2026. Bangladesh subsequently pulled out of the 2026 men’s T20 World Cup in India, while India’s white-ball tour of Bangladesh has been postponed repeatedly amid the political tensions.India have been the standout side of the tournament, topping Group A with three wins from three matches. Harmanpreet Kaur’s side will be keen to reclaim the continental crown after losing last year’s final to Sri Lanka in Colombo.The biggest highlight of India’s campaign has been vice-captain Smriti Mandhana’s blazing 124 off 64 balls against Hong Kong. During that knock, she surpassed former skipper Mithali Raj to become the leading run-scorer in women’s international cricket across formats. India’s spinners also dismantled Pakistan for just 55 before sealing a seven-wicket win inside nine overs. Alongside Mandhana, Shafali Verma has continued her explosive form.PollWho do you think will win the first semifinal between India and Bangladesh?IndiaBangladesh3k+ users shared opinion today 5k+ users already voted today Share Opinion