The Indian women's cricket team delivered a commanding performance at the Asian Games 2026, securing a spot in the title clash with a massive 114-run victory over Bangladesh in the second semi-final. With this dominant win, India advanced to the gold medal match, where they will square off against Sri Lanka. Sri Lanka booked their place after defeating Pakistan in the earlier semi-final, setting up a repeat of the title showdown seen in the previous edition of the Asian Games.
Shafali Verma Unleashes Power-Hitting Display
Electing to bat after Indian skipper Harmanpreet Kaur won the toss, the batting unit made full use of the conditions. Team India compiled an imposing total of 195 for 4 in their allotted 20 overs. The centerpiece of the innings was an explosive knock by opener Shafali Verma, who dismantled the bowling attack with relentless hitting across the ground.
Shafali Verma reached an unbeaten 100 runs off just 49 deliveries, marking the first century of her T20 career. Her blistering century featured 9 sixes and 3 boundaries. Opening partner Smriti Mandhana set an aggressive tone early on with 37 runs, while Harmanpreet Kaur added momentum in the middle overs with a brisk 40, helping the side reach a formidable total.
Bangladesh Collapses Under Steep Chase
Chasing a steep target of 196 runs, Bangladesh's lineup unravelled rapidly against relentless pressure. The entire batting order folded for just 81 runs in 15.4 overs, unable to mount any meaningful fightback. Only three batters in the Bangladeshi lineup managed to cross into double figures throughout the innings.
Opener Dilara Akter offered the lone notable resistance for Bangladesh, compiling a team-high 27 runs. Sultana Khatun contributed 12 runs and Sharmin Akhter scored 10, but the remainder of the side struggled to stay at the crease against the disciplined bowling attack.
Disciplined Bowling Attack Seals the Rout
India's bowlers maintained continuous pressure, rarely offering boundary opportunities. Nandani Sharma and Deepti Sharma led the bowling effort, taking 3 wickets apiece. Sri Charani picked up 2 wickets, while Kranti Gaur and Shreyanka Patil took 1 wicket each to round off an emphatic team triumph.
Sri Lanka Awaits in Final After Pakistan Bows Out
In the other semi-final encounter, Sri Lanka cruised to an 8-wicket victory over Pakistan, ending hopes of an India-Pakistan summit clash. The stage is now set for India and Sri Lanka to battle for gold, recreating their rivalry from the previous Asian Games tournament.
