India Women began their Asian Games title defence with a commanding eightโwicket win over hosts Japan at the Aichi Prefectural Korogi Sports Park.
India Women kicked off their Asian Games title defence with a dominant eight-wicket victory over Japan on Friday at the Aichi Prefectural Korogi Sports Park in Nisshin, Japan. The win propelled the Harmanpreet Kaur-led Women in Blue into the semifinals.
The Asian Games women’s cricket tournament has an eight-team bracket, and India received direct entry into the quarterfinal stage, setting up a thrilling clash against event hosts Japan.
Charani, Shafali dominate Japan
After India won the toss and opted to bowl first, bowlers Sree Charani and Shafali Verma delivered clinical spells to help them establish dominance over their opposition. Charani clinched a 4/10 spell, while Shafali picked up 2/13 as India bowled out Japan for a mere 57.
Japan openers Haruna Iwasaki and Ayata Kato Stafford helped their team pick up a slow start, but Charani’s red-hot performance and Shafali’s clinical spell did little to let them settle on the pitch and bat deep. The opening duo scored just 24 runs in the powerplay.
Only three boundaries were scored during Japan’s innings, showcasing India’s dominance with the ball. Considering their inexperience, they barely made an impact against a heavyweight squad like India.
More from FirstcricketNotably, the pitch had immense bounce and turn, making it difficult for the Japanese batters to sustain against the Indian side.
India Women into the semi-finals
As India stepped out to chase the target, Shafali continued her brilliance, scoring an unbeaten 40 off just 15 deliveries, playing an anchor role. Her all-around performance helped India Women big-time, as they chased down the target in just five overs.
Japan, however, had some moments of optimism and celebration after bringing down openers G Kamalini and Bharti Fulmali. Their passionate celebration showed spirit, but it did not help them contain the Indian side.
India Women’s eight-wicket win over Japan in the quarters has helped them set up a competitive semifinal clash against Bangladesh on September 20.