India Women delivered a commanding all-round performance to defeat Bangladesh by 40 runs in the first semi-final of the Women’s Asia Cup 2026 at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium on Thursday, September 10, securing their place in the final.
Batting first, India compiled 149/6 in their allotted 20 overs, spearheaded by opener Shafali Verma. The right-handed batter smashed an impressive 64 off 40 balls, hitting three sixes to steer her team past a difficult pitch. She was adjudged Player of the Match for her explosive innings.
Verma’s aggressive batting during the powerplay laid a solid foundation for India, complemented by an unbeaten 24 from Harmanpreet Kaur and a valuable 21 from Richa Ghosh. India stabilized after losing early wickets, while Bangladesh’s fielding errors proved costly, with multiple opportunities missed during Verma’s innings.
Chasing 150, Bangladesh failed to generate momentum against India’s disciplined bowling attack. Deepti Sharma emerged as the standout bowler with figures of 3/26, while Nandani Sharma struck at the death to claim two wickets. Shree Charani and Prema Rawat also contributed one wicket each.
Bangladesh were bowled out for 109/7 in their 20 overs. Shorna Akter top-scored with 22 and Fahima Khatun added 14, but India’s persistent wicket-taking at crucial junctures prevented any meaningful late charge.
This triumph means India have reached the Women’s T20 Asia Cup final in every edition of the tournament. They will now face the winners of the second semi-final between Sri Lanka and Pakistan in Sunday’s championship match.
