Opener Shafali Verma struck her maiden T20I century as India posted a commanding 195 for four against Bangladesh in the second semifinal of the women’s cricket competition at the 2026 Asian Games on Sunday.
After opting to bat first, India made full use of the favourable batting conditions and short boundaries, with Shafali leading the charge and anchoring a dominant batting display.
Smriti Mandhana provided India with a brisk start, scoring 37 off 19 balls with five fours and two sixes before being dismissed by Nahida Akter. Gunalan Kamalini made three off 10 balls before Shanjida Akter Meghla accounted for her.
Captain Harmanpreet Kaur then added 40 off 33 deliveries, hitting six fours, to keep the scoring rate high alongside Shafali.
India’s batters repeatedly targeted the shorter boundaries on either side of the square, putting sustained pressure on the Bangladesh attack and keeping the scoreboard moving.
Despite Bangladesh maintaining discipline with the ball and taking most of their chances in the field, India’s aggressive approach helped them reach 195 for four at the end of their innings.
Bangladesh now face a steep chase in their attempt to secure a place in the gold medal match. The winner of the semifinal will advance to the final, while the losing team will play for the bronze medal.
