India storms into Asian Games cricket final after Shafali’s historic century; faces Sri Lanka for gold medal

It will be a rematch of the Asia Cup final, where India beat them to win their record-extending title. India’s women have advanced to the gold medal match at the 2026 Asian Games with a dominant 114-run victory over Bangladesh in the second semi-final on Sunday. 

Batting first at Korogi Sports Park in Nisshin, Japan, India posted 195 for 4 in 20 overs. Opener Shafali Verma starred with a blistering unbeaten 100 off just 49 balls, featuring nine sixes and three fours. The knock was her maiden T20 international century and the first hundred scored by a woman in Asian Games cricket history.

India storms into Asian Games cricket final after Shafali’s historic century; faces Sri Lanka for gold medal 

Smriti Mandhana recorded 37, while captain Harmanpreet Kaur added 40, providing solid support as India built a commanding total. Bangladesh were then dismissed for 81 in 15.4 overs, unable to cope with India’s disciplined bowling attack.

India will face Sri Lanka in the gold medal match on Tuesday. On the other hand, Pakistan and Bangladesh will contest the bronze medal play-off. The result continues India’s strong form in the tournament and underlines Shafali’s exceptional recent run of scoring.

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