Verma Sets the Tone in Dubai
After Bangladesh won the toss and elected to field, India faced the challenge of setting a target on a pitch that demanded application. Verma rose to the occasion, anchoring the innings with a brilliant 64 off just 40 balls. Her ability to find the boundary consistently kept the scoreboard moving, while captain Harmanpreet Kaur provided steady support with a composed 24 off 28 balls. Despite the efforts of Sultana Khatun, who was the pick of the Bangladesh bowlers with figures of 2/30 from her three overs, India managed to reach 149/6 by the end of their 20 overs.
Disciplined Bowling Seals Final Berth
Chasing 150 for a spot in the final, Bangladesh struggled to build momentum against a disciplined Indian bowling attack. The pressure was evident from the outset, with India claiming an early wicket to put the opposition on the back foot. The turning point of the chase arrived in the sixth over when Juairiya Ferdous fell at 26, effectively stalling any hopes of a Bangladesh recovery.
As the required run rate climbed, the Bangladesh batters found it difficult to rotate the strike or clear the ropes. Shorna Akter provided some resistance with a fighting 22 off 18 balls, supported by Dilara Akter, but the target remained out of reach. India’s bowling unit, led by standout performances from Deepti Sharma and Nandani Sharma, maintained tight lines and lengths throughout the innings. Bangladesh eventually finished on 109/7, falling 40 runs short of the target.
Shafali Verma was named Player of the Match for her match-defining 64, a performance that ensured India’s progression to the tournament decider. With this victory, India continues their strong run in the Women's Asia Cup, moving one step closer to the title.
