Photo via Hindustan Times

Shafali 64 guides India women into final of Asia Cup

India sealed a spot in the Women's Asia Cup T20 decider for the tenth time after defeating Bangladesh by 40 runs in their Dubai semi-final. Setting out on a slow track, India posted 149 for 6 courtesy of an enterprising 64 from 40 deliveries by Shafali Verma, who clubbed seven boundaries and three sixes despite offering four chances via three dropped catches and an averted run-out.

She steadied the innings in a 50-run stand alongside Pratika Rawal (20) following Smriti Mandhana's departure for 2. As Bangladesh's slower bowlers choked the middle overs—leaving captain Harmanpreet Kaur stuck on an undefeated 24 from 28—India capitalized late against seamers Marufa Akter and Sultana Khatun, boosted by Richa Ghosh's 21 off 16 and a quickfire 13 from six balls by Deepti Sharma.

Faced with a demanding 150-run target, Bangladesh faltered against the Indian spin attack, which removed their first five batters and kept their reply stagnant. Dilara Akter managed 21 and Shorna Akter finished unbeaten on 22, but the chase fizzled as Deepti Sharma took 3 for 26 to dominate the defense.

Nandani Sharma applied late pressure with figures of 2 for 10, closing out a decisive victory.