Shafali stars with 64, Deepti strikes thrice as India storm into 10th Asia Cup final after 40-run win over Bangladesh

🏏 Gracing the pitch like a dancer's perfect adavu — India's batting and bowling combined into a flawless performance to sweep Bangladesh aside by 40 runs and march into the Women's Asia Cup 2026 final! 🎉

Shafali's Blazing 64 Sets the Tempo 🌟

Bangladesh won the toss and chose to field first, but Shafali Varma danced to a blistering 64 off just 40 balls — seven fours and three sixes! After Smriti Mandhana fell cheaply for 2, Shafali held the innings together, riding her luck after being dropped three times. Harpreet contributed a fiery 24 off 28, Richa Ghosh a crisp 21 off 16, and Deepti finished strong with a quick 13 off 6. India posted 149/6 in 20 overs — a modest-looking total that would prove deadly.

Deepti's Spin Magic Strikes Thrice 🌀

Chasing 150 on a slow Dubai pitch, Bangladesh never found their rhythm. Deepti Sharma was the difference-maker once again, tearing through with 3/26 in four overs. Nandani Sharma added 2/10, including the final wicket. Though Dilara Akter (21) and Shorna Akter (22) offered glimpses of resistance, Bangladesh collapsed to 109/7. The innings ended in poetic fashion — Rabeya Khan dismissed hitwicket after attempting a slog!

Into the Final! 🏆

This extends India's unbeaten run and seals their 10th successive Asia Cup final. The 17-time champions now await the winner of Sri Lanka vs Pakistan in the semifinal, with the title clash set for Sept 13. The hunt for another crown continues! 💛💚

Source: Times of India