Asian Games 2026: Shafali’s fiery ton fires India to women’s cricket final, ensures medal

Shafali Verma slammed her maiden T20I century to power India into the final of women’s cricket event at the Asian Games with a 114-run win over Bangladesh, here on Sunday.

Opting to bat, India rode on Shafali’s unbeaten 100 off 49 balls (9 sixes, 3 fours) to post 195 for four in the second semifinal. Smriti Mandhana made a quick 37 while skipper Harmanpreet Kaur scored 40 off 33 balls.

Asian Games 2026 updates on September 20, 2026

For Bangladesh, Sanjida Akter Meghla (1/25) was pick of the bowlers.

Indian bowlers bundled out Bangladesh for just 81 in 15.4 overs. Opener Dilara Akter (27 off 23) top-scored for Bangladesh. Nandani Sharma (3/25), Shree Charani (2/7) and Deepti Sharma (3/7) were among the wickets.

Brief Scores: India Women 195 for 4 in 20 overs (Shafali Verma 100 not out; Sanjida Akter Meghla 1/25). Bangladesh Women 114 all out in 15.4 overs (Dilara Akter 27; Nandani Sharma 3/25, Deepti Sharma 3/7).

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