India produced another dominant performance with bat and ball to beat Bangladesh by 40 runs and storm into the final of the Women’s Asia Cup 2026 at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium on Thursday. After posting 149/6 in their 20 overs, India’s bowlers delivered under pressure to restrict Bangladesh to 109/7, successfully defending what initially appeared to be a modest total on a slow pitch.The victory extended India’s unbeaten run in the tournament and secured their place in a 10th successive Women’s Asia Cup final. They will face the winner of the second semi-final between defending champions Sri Lanka and Pakistan in the title clash on September 13.
Shafali’s blazing 64 lifts India
Bangladesh won the toss and opted to field, but Shafali Varma made the most of the opportunity to put India on the front foot.The explosive opener smashed 64 off 40 balls, hitting seven fours and three sixes, as she held India’s innings together after vice-captain Smriti Mandhana fell for just two. Shafali rode her luck after being dropped three times but made Bangladesh pay with an attacking knock that gave India a competitive total.Captain Harmanpreet Kaur struggled for fluency but contributed 24 off 28 balls, including two sixes, while Richa Ghosh added an important 21 off 16 deliveries. Deepti Sharma then provided the late impetus with a quick 13 off six balls, helping India finish just short of 150.
Deepti spins Bangladesh into trouble
Bangladesh needed 150 to reach the final but struggled to maintain momentum throughout their chase. Deepti Sharma once again proved the difference with the ball, claiming 3/26 in four overs and repeatedly breaking Bangladesh’s resistance.Nandani Sharma also impressed, taking 2/10 from two overs, including the final wicket of the innings. Bangladesh’s top order showed glimpses of resistance, with Dilara Akter scoring 21 off 26 balls and Shorna Akter hitting a brisk 22 off 18. But the batting line-up failed to absorb India’s sustained pressure.The Tigresses lost wickets at regular intervals as India tightened their grip on the chase. With the required rate climbing, Bangladesh could only reach 109/7 in 20 overs, falling 40 runs short.The innings ended in fitting fashion for India, with Nandani Sharma dismissing Rabeya Khan hit-wicket. Khan attempted to slog a slower delivery but ended up dislodging the stumps with her bat while completing the shot.
India eye another Asia Cup title
India’s latest victory keeps their unbeaten campaign intact and sends them into yet another Asia Cup final. The seven-time champions will now await the winner of Sri Lanka vs Pakistan, with the final scheduled for September 13.
