Forthill saw another close, low-scoring game as Bangladesh clinched their spot at the 2020 T20 World Cup by 4 wickets

Winning the toss and opting to bat first, Ireland got off to a nightmare start as they lost their top three with just 15 runs on the board.

A disciplined, all-round performance in the field saw only one extra given away as each bowler made a contribution – Fahima Khatun was the standout with 3 for 18 – to ensure Ireland never recovered from their earlier woes.

Resistance from skipper Laura Delany (25) at number four and Eimear Richardson (25) at number seven held off the staunch Bangladesh bowling attack to help Ireland up to 85 at the end of their 20 overs.

With Bangladesh reduced to 34 for 4 after ten overs thanks to a great spell from Orla Prendergast (2 for 11), Ireland would have fancied their chances. However, Bangladesh losst no more wickets until the 17th over when Paul combined with Kavanagh to run out Ritu Moni for 15 but it was too late, Bangladesh then requiring just 15 runs from 18 deliveries.

Back to back fours from Sanjida Islam (35*) in the 18th all but secured the victory as Bangladesh went into the penultimate over requiring just six runs. A four off the first ball from Jahanara Alam (6*) followed by two singles took Bangladesh to victory.

Salma Khatun, Bangladesh captain, said: "We are very happy to be heading to Australia for the Women's T20 World Cup in February. Being at the world stage helps us grow the women's game back home in Bangladesh. We hope they can watch and be inspired to play."