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Bangladesh finished runners-up in the Begum Khaleda Zia Women’s IHF Nations Trophy (Asia Zone 2) after losing 28-16 to India in the final at the Shaheed Captain M Mansur Ali National Handball Stadium in Paltan, Dhaka, on Thursday.
India, who dominated the tournament throughout, once again demonstrated their superiority to lift the title.
Bangladesh struggled against India’s pace and physical strength from the outset. Despite attempting to put up a fight in the first half, the hosts trailed 14-9 at the break.
The team coached by Spanish tactician Ana Alonso Fraguas tried to stage a comeback after the interval but failed to close the gap. India extended their lead with sharp attacks and a solid defensive display before sealing a 28-16 victory.
Earlier in the league stage, Bangladesh had suffered a heavy 47-13 defeat against India. However, Ismetara Nishi’s side secured their place in the final by beating Nepal 33-20 in their opening match and defeating the Maldives by the same margin in their final league fixture.
India, meanwhile, remained unbeaten throughout the tournament to claim the championship.
In the third-place playoff held at the same venue before the final, Nepal defeated the Maldives 27-15 to secure the bronze medal.