India Crush Bangladesh by 10 Wickets in Women’s T20 Asia Cup Semifinal
In a one-sided contest, India delivered a crushing 10-wicket defeat to Bangladesh in the first semifinal of the Women’s T20 Asia Cup at Rangiri Dambulla International Stadium on Friday. Bangladesh struggled both with the bat and ball, falling well short of India’s challenge.
Bangladesh’s Batting Collapse: Opting to bat first, Bangladesh’s innings collapsed early as Indian pacer Renuka Singh delivered a remarkable spell, claiming 3 wickets for just 10 runs and reducing Bangladesh to 21-3 within the first five overs. Despite a valiant effort from skipper Nigar Sultana Joty, who scored 32 off 51 balls, and a late unbeaten 19 from Shorna Akter, Bangladesh could only muster a meager 80-8 in their 20 overs. Indian left-arm spinner Radha Yadav also contributed with three wickets, further derailing Bangladesh’s innings.
India’s Dominant Chase: India’s chase was straightforward as openers Smriti Mandhana and Shafali Verma made light work of the target. Mandhana scored a brisk 55, while Verma added 26, guiding India to an emphatic 83-0 in just 11 overs. Mandhana’s performance was highlighted by three consecutive boundaries off Nahida Akter’s bowling, marking her 25th WT20I fifty and sealing India’s place in the final for a record ninth time.
Bangladesh’s Disappointment: Bangladesh’s performance was a stark contrast to their recent form, having faced a 5-0 whitewash in a T20 series against India in Sylhet. Their batting struggles and inability to counter the Indian bowlers were evident throughout the match.
Looking Forward: India will now await the outcome of the second semifinal between Sri Lanka and Pakistan, scheduled to be played later the same day, to determine their opponent in the final.
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