India Women dominated the Bangladesh Women in the first semi-final of the 2024 ACC Women’s Asia Cup, securing a decisive 10-wicket victory at the Rangiri Dambulla International Cricket Stadium. The match showcased India’s exceptional bowling and batting prowess, as they successfully chased down a modest target of 81 runs in just 11 overs.
Match Overview
Bangladesh won the toss and opted to bat first, which would prove detrimental. They struggled against a disciplined Indian bowling attack, ultimately posting a mere 80 runs for losing eight wickets in their allotted 20 overs. India, in response, displayed remarkable composure and aggression, reaching 83 without losing a wicket.
Bangladesh Innings
Bangladesh’s innings began with promise but quickly unraveled. The opening partnership was short-lived, as Dilara Akter fell to Renuka Singh for just six runs. Despite a brief resistance from Murshida Khatun, who managed to score 23 runs, the Bangladesh batting lineup faltered under pressure. Renuka Singh’s early breakthrough set the tone for India’s bowling dominance.
Pooka Vastrakar and Radha Yadav were instrumental in dismantling the Bangladesh batting order. Vastrakar’s pace and precision led to crucial wickets, while Yadav’s spin caused further chaos. Bangladesh’s innings were marked by poor shot selection and a lack of partnerships, culminating in a disappointing total of 80 runs. The team lost their last four wickets for just two runs, showcasing a dramatic collapse.
Key Bowling Performances
- Renuka Singh: 3 wickets for 12 runs in 4 overs
- Pooja Vastrakar: 2 wickets for 19 runs in 4 overs
- Radha Yadav: 2 wickets for 9 runs in 4 overs
The Indian bowlers executed their plans flawlessly, exploiting the cracks on the pitch and utilizing the windy conditions to their advantage. Their disciplined approach restricted Bangladesh to a total that was never going to be competitive.
India Innings
Chasing a target of 81 runs, India started confidently, Openers Smriti Mandhana and Shafali Verma put together an unbeaten partnership, demonstrating their intent from the outset. Mandhana was particularly aggressive, scoring 55 runs off just 39 balls, while Verma supported her with a steady 26 runs off 28 balls.
Batting Highlights
- Smriti Mandhana: 55 runs off 39 balls, including 7 fours and 2 sixes
- Shafali Verma: 26 runs off 28 balls
Mandhana’s innings were characterized by elegant strokes and powerful boundaries, showcasing her ability to dominate the bowlers. Verma, meanwhile, played a supporting role, ensuring that India maintained a steady run rate without taking unnecessary risks.
The India batting lineup’s approach was methodical, as they capitalized on the poor bowling from Bangladesh. The chase was completed in just 11 overs, with India finishing at 83 runs without losing a wicket, reinforcing their status as one of the tournament favorites.
Conclusion
India’s comprehensive victory over Bangladesh not only secured their place in the final of the Women’s Asia Cup but also highlighted their strengths in both bowling and batting. The match was a stark reminder of the gap between the two teams, with India showcasing their depth and experience.
As India prepares for the final, they will look to build on this performance and continue their dominant run in the tournament. For Bangladesh, the focus will be on regrouting and addressing the issues that led to their downfall in this crucial match.
Looking Ahead
India’s next challenge will be in the final, where they will face the winner of the other semi-final. With their current form and confidence, they are poised to reclaim the Asia Cup title. Bangladesh, on the other hand, will need to reflect on their performance and make necessary adjustments to compete at this level.
This match serves as a testament to the growing competitiveness in women’s cricket, with India firmly establishing itself as a powerhouse in the sport. Fans can expect more thrilling encounters as the tournament progresses, with the final promising to be an exciting culminating of the Asia Cup.
