The Indian women’s cricket team put up an impressive score of 178 runs against Nepal in their final group stage match of the Women’s Asia Cup 2024. Opener Shafali Verma was the standout performer, scoring 81 runs off 48 balls.

India won the toss and chose to bat first, a decision that worked out well. Shafali Verma and Dayalan Hemalatha provided a strong start, bringing the team to 91 runs within the first 10 overs. They continued their good form, adding 23 more runs in the next 3 overs.

Shafali Verma shines with 81 runs

Shafali Verma along with Dayalan Hemalatha, laid a solid foundation for India with a partnership of 122 runs. Sita Rana Magar was Nepal’s top wicket taker, claiming 2 wickets for 25 runs in 4 overs.

Hemalatha was dismissed in the 14th over after scoring 47 runs from 42 balls. Soon after, Shafali was stumped while attempting a big shot having hit 12 fours and a six in her innings.

Final overs Surge: India scores 35 runs

After the fall of Hemalatha and Shafali, India’s scoring rate slowed down. They managed only 12 runs in the 16th and 17th overs. However, the team bounced back in the final 3 overs, scoring 35 runs to finish their innings at 178 runs.

Overall, India’s strong start and late surge ensured a solid total. Despite a slowdown in the middle overs, the team’s final push helped them set a challenging target for Nepal.