In a thrilling semi-final clash of the 2024 Women’s Asia Cup in Dambulla, India emerged victorious against Bangladesh, thanks to a dominant bowling performance. Bangladesh captain Nigar Sultana won the toss and elected to bat first, hoping to put scoreboard pressure on India in this knockout game. However, their plan faltered as the Indian bowlers dismantled their batting lineup, restricting them to just 80 runs in 20 overs.

Indian bowlers shine with Renuka and Radha leading the charge

India made some strategic changes to their lineup, including the introduction of young wicketkeeper-batter Uma Chetry as a specialist batter, replacing D Hemalatha. Pooja Vastrakar returned to the team after being rested in the previous group fixture, replacing Arundhati Reddy in the pace department. Harmanpreet Kaur also returned after missing the last group game, replacing S Sajana.

The star of the show was Renuka Singh, who delivered a remarkable performance with the ball, picking up three crucial wickets in the powerplay. Her figures of 3/10 set the tone for India’s dominance in the match. Following Renuka’s lead, spinner Radha Yadav also played a pivotal role, taking three wickets for just 14 runs. Together, they dismantled Bangladesh’s batting order, leaving them reeling at 80/8 in their allotted 20 overs.

The Indian bowlers, led by Renuka and Radha, executed their plans flawlessly, maintaining tight lines and not allowing the Bangladesh batters to settle. Pooja Vastrakar’s all-round contribution further strengthened India’s control over the game.

India bring win against Bangladesh

Bangladesh, who had hoped to replicate their 2018 Asia Cup final victory over India, were left disappointed as their batting lineup crumbled under pressure.

Radha Yadav holds the record as the fastest Indian woman to reach 50 wickets in T20 Internationals, achieving this milestone in just 36 innings. She is followed by Poonam Yadav, who took 38 innings, and Ekta Bisht, who reached the mark in 39 innings. Rajeshwari Gayakwad achieved the feat in 41 innings, while Renuka Singh Thakur took 45 innings to reach her 50th wicket.

Deepti Sharma achieved the milestone in 46 innings, while legendary bowler Jhulan Goswami took 59 innings, and Pooja Vastrakar completed the list by reaching 50 T20I wickets in 60 innings. This impressive list showcases the depth of talent and skill in Indian women’s cricket.

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The win showcased India’s depth in both pace and spin bowling, with Renuka Singh and Radha Yadav emerging as standout performers. As India looks forward to the final, they will aim to carry this momentum and clinch the Asia Cup title.