India booked their place in the final of the Women’s Asia Cup 2026 with a comprehensive 40-run victory over Bangladesh in the first semi-final at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium on September 10.
Batting first after Bangladesh captain Nigar Sultana won the toss and elected to field, India posted 149 for 6 in their 20 overs. Opener Shafali Verma top-scored with a brisk 64 off 40 balls, including seven fours and three sixes. Captain Harmanpreet Kaur contributed an unbeaten 24, while useful lower-order contributions helped India reach a competitive total on a slow surface.
In reply, Bangladesh were restricted to 109 for 7. India’s spinners dominated, with Deepti Sharma leading the attack with figures of 3 for 26. Nandani Sharma claimed two wickets in the final over to seal the win. Bangladesh’s top order showed early promise, but regular breakthroughs prevented any substantial partnerships.
Key Performances
Shafali Verma: 64 (40) – Player of the Match
Deepti Sharma: 3/26 (also the tournament’s leading wicket-taker at that stage)
Strong bowling support from the spin unit on a pitch assisting slower bowlers
The win continues India’s remarkable record in the Women’s T20 Asia Cup. They have reached the final in every edition of the tournament and remain unbeaten in this year’s competition.
India will now face the winner of the second semi-final between Pakistan and Sri Lanka in the final, scheduled for September 13 in Dubai. Sri Lanka later defeated Pakistan by four wickets to set up a summit clash against India.
The Women in Blue will look to claim another Asia Cup title, having previously lifted the trophy multiple times. Fans can expect a high-intensity final as India aim to continue their dominance in Asian women’s cricket.
