Cricket

Shafali Verma Century Powers India Women into Asian Games Final

  • Authored By: Sports Now
  • Updated Sep 20, 2026, 13:30 IST

Shafali Verma smashed a brilliant 100 off 49 balls to lead India Women to a dominant 114-run victory over Bangladesh in the Asian Games semi-final at Korogi Sports Park.

Shafali Verma Century Powers India Women into Asian Games Final

Verma Masterclass Sets Unreachable Target

India Women secured their place in the final of the 2026 Asian Games Women's Cricket Competition with a commanding 114-run victory over Bangladesh at Korogi Sports Park in Nisshin. The result was built on a spectacular batting display by Shafali Verma, whose explosive century propelled India to a formidable total of 195/4 from their allotted 20 overs after captain Harmanpreet Kaur elected to bat first.

Verma was the undisputed architect of the innings, racing to 100 runs off just 49 balls. Her aggressive approach provided the foundation for India’s dominance, while Harmanpreet Kaur provided vital support with a composed 40 off 33 balls. Despite the pressure, Bangladesh struggled to contain the scoring rate, with Sanjida Akter Meghla proving the most economical of the bowlers, finishing with figures of 1/25 from her four overs.

Clinical Bowling Seals Comprehensive Win

Facing a daunting target of 196, Bangladesh’s chase never gained momentum. The innings suffered an immediate setback when Juairiya Ferdous fell with the score at just 4 in the second over, a moment that proved to be the turning point of the match. The pressure exerted by the Indian bowling attack led to three early wickets, effectively dismantling the top order and preventing any meaningful partnerships from forming.

Dilara Akter offered some resistance with a top score of 27 off 23 balls, supported by Sultana Khatun, but the required run rate proved insurmountable. The Indian bowlers remained disciplined throughout, with Deepti Sharma and Nandani Sharma delivering standout performances to ensure there was no way back for the opposition. Bangladesh was eventually bowled out for 81, handing India a comprehensive win and a spot in the gold medal match.