In a thrilling second game of the Women’s Asia Cup, India showcased their dominance over Pakistan with a commanding seven-wicket victory. The match, held on a windy Friday evening in Dambulla, was set up by a clinical bowling display that saw Pakistan bowled out for 108. India’s opening duo, Shafali Verma and Smriti Mandhana, then ensured a comfortable chase with an impressive 85-run stand, sealing the win in just 14.1 overs.
Vastrakar’s Short-Ball Masterclass
Pooja Vastrakar led India’s bowling attack with a remarkable short-ball strategy. With Renuka Singh returning to the XI, India utilized five overs of pace in the powerplay, pegging Pakistan back early. Vastrakar’s persistence with short deliveries paid off as she dismissed Gull Feroza and Muneeba Ali, reducing Pakistan to 26 for 2 within the first four overs.
In stark contrast to Pakistan’s innings, India’s openers Shafali Verma and Smriti Mandhana got off to a flying start. Scoring 57 runs in the powerplay, they quickly adjusted to the slowness of the pitch used earlier in the day. Shafali’s aggressive batting included six fours, while Mandhana’s elegant cover drives and backfoot punches saw her accumulate 43 runs off 26 balls before falling short of a half-century.
Pakistan’s Batting Collapse
Pakistan’s batting lineup struggled to build momentum, with their captain failing to stitch together a crucial partnership. At the halfway mark, Pakistan was 53 for 3, but Deepti Sharma’s introduction into the attack in the 11th over proved decisive. Sharma dismissed Nida Dar immediately, and Renuka Singh’s subsequent double strike left Pakistan reeling at 61 for 6. Despite some resistance from Tuba Hassan and Fatima Sana, who both scored 22, Pakistan was bowled out for a modest 108.
Deepti Sharma’s return to form was a highlight for India. After conceding ten runs in her first over, she made a significant impact in her second spell, finishing with figures of 20 for 3. Sharma’s final over included a brilliant run-out by Radha Yadav and secured her the Player of the Match award.
India’s Continued Dominance
This victory extends India’s record against Pakistan in the Women’s Asia Cup to 6-1 and 12-3 in T20Is overall. The defending champions displayed their prowess with both bat and ball, setting a strong tone for their campaign in the tournament.
India’s next challenge will be against UAE where they will try to maintain this momentum as they aim for another Women’s Asia Cup title. With such a comprehensive performance, the team has certainly set a high standard for the competition ahead.
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