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India secured their place in the final of the Women's Asia Cup 2024 with a comprehensive 10-wicket victory over Bangladesh. In a one-sided match played in Dambulla on July 26, Harmanpreet Kaur-led India chased down Bangladesh's meager total of 81 runs in just 11 overs. The Indian bowlers, led by Renuka Singh and Radha Yadav who claimed three wickets each, ran riot and restricted Bangladesh to a paltry score, setting up a comfortable win for their team. This is for the ninth time in a row that India have made it to the Women's Asia Cup final.
Mandhana, Shafali make short work of the chase
With a paltry target of 81 runs, India's victory was merely a matter of time. Openers Smriti Mandhana and Shafali Verma launched a blistering assault from the outset, ensuring a swift chase. Mandhana, the more aggressive of the two, scored a fluent 55* off 39 balls, while Shafali contributed 26 runs. India comfortably achieved the target in just 11 overs, setting up a final clash against the winner of the Sri Lanka-Pakistan match.
India's Renuka Singh unleashes early havoc
Earlier, India's pace bowler Renuka Singh delivered a devastating opening spell to dismantle Bangladesh's batting lineup in the first semifinal of the Women's Asia Cup. Bowling four consecutive overs, Renuka claimed three crucial wickets, conceding just 10 runs in the process. Renuka struck in the very first over, removing Dilara Akter with a catch at deep mid-wicket. Her next over saw the dismissal of Ishma Tanjim, who mistimed a shot and was caught at short third. Renuka completed her impressive spell by clean bowling Murshida Khatun, leaving Bangladesh reeling at 25 for three after the Powerplay.
Bangladesh struggle against Indian pressure
Reduced to 25 for three inside the Powerplay, Bangladesh faced a daunting task to recover. Their only hope lay with captain Nigar Sultana, the tournament's leading run-scorer. Despite her determination, Sultana found it difficult to counter the relentless Indian bowling attack. The Indian spinners were particularly effective, restricting Sultana's preferred sweep shot. India's fielding also improved significantly compared to previous matches. Shafali Verma showcased her brilliance with a stunning catch to dismiss Rabeya Khan. While Sultana and Shorna Akter managed a late partnership, it was too little too late for Bangladesh, as they were unable to mount a significant challenge.
India will lock horns with the winner of second semifinal between Pakistan and Sri Lanka in the grand finale on Sunday.
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