Nisshin, Sept 21:
India stormed into the women’s cricket final at the Asian Games with a commanding 114-run victory over Bangladesh, with opener Shafali Verma producing a record-breaking century.
Batting first in the semi-final, India posted 195 for four in 20 overs. Shafali produced a sensational 49-ball century and dominated the Bangladesh attack with aggressive strokeplay. Smriti Mandhana also contributed with a rapid 37 off 19 balls.
Bangladesh struggled to cope with India’s bowling attack and were dismissed for 81 in 14.5 overs. The 114-run victory secured India’s place in the gold-medal match for the second consecutive Asian Games.
India will face Sri Lanka in the final on Tuesday. Sri Lanka booked their place in the title clash after defeating Pakistan by eight wickets.
India are the defending Asian Games champions and will now have an opportunity to retain the women’s T20 cricket gold.
The final will also provide another major contest between two of the strongest teams in Asian women’s cricket, with India entering the match after an emphatic semi-final performance.