Asia Cup 2024: Bowlers shine as India crush Bangladesh to storm into final

Asia Cup 2024: India showcased an impeccable performance in the semi-final of the Women's Asia Cup 2024, defeating Bangladesh. With this win, India women's team secured their place in the finals, which will be played in Dambulla on Friday. India effortlessly chased down the 81-run target in just 11 overs. Renuka Singh and Radha Yadav scalped three wickets each and bundled out Bangladesh to mere 80 runs.

As it happened

India opted to bowl first on what appeared to be an excellent batting pitch. However, from the very first ball, India’s bowlers took control of the game. Renuka Singh set the tone by dismissing Bangladesh opener Dilara Akter in the first over. Renuka's sharp inswingers proved too difficult for the Bangladesh batters, and she claimed three crucial wickets during the powerplay.

Bangladesh struggles to recover

After losing their top three batters for just 21 runs, Bangladesh went into defensive mode. Captain Nigar Sultana tried to stabilize the innings, scoring 32 off 51 balls. While her effort provided some stability, at the same time, it also slowed down the scoring rate. Sultana's cautious approach left Bangladesh with a modest total to defend.

𝐈𝐧𝐭𝐨 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐟𝐢𝐧𝐚𝐥 🙌🙌

A formidable win against Bangladesh takes #TeamIndia into the Final and makes it 4⃣ wins in 4⃣ matches 👌👌

Scorecard ▶️ https://t.co/JwoMEaSoyn#INDvBAN | #WomensAsiaCup2024 | #ACC | #SemiFinal pic.twitter.com/2E1htJVcCp

— BCCI Women (@BCCIWomen) July 26, 2024

Final over collapse

In the final over of Bangladesh's innings, Sultana attempted to accelerate the scoring but was caught off Radha Yadav’s bowling. Radha's exceptional over saw her take two wickets without conceding any runs, and Bangladesh ended their innings at 80 for 8.

Quick chase by Indian openers

Smriti Mandhana and Shafali Verma led the charge from the start. Mandhana played a commanding innings, scoring an unbeaten 55 off 39 balls, including nine fours and a six. Shafali supported her well with 26 off 28 balls, ensuring India reached the target without any hiccups.

Who will challenge India in final?

With this victory, India has stormed into the final of the Women's Asia Cup 2024. They will face the winner of the Sri Lanka vs Pakistan semifinal match.