Shafali Verma's Career-Best Knock Propels India into Women's Asia Cup Semi-Finals

India fixed their spot in Asia Cup 2024 semi-final once again / Getty Images

Shafali Verma's blistering career-best 81 and disciplined bowling led India to an 82-run victory over Nepal, securing a semi-final spot in the Women's Asia Cup 2024. India, with three wins from three games, topped Group A. Pakistan, with two wins, also advanced.

Opting to bat, Smriti Mandhana's India posted 178 for 3. Shafali's aggressive knock and a solid opening stand with D Hemalatha set the tone. Hemalatha struggled in her 42-ball 47, while Shafali capitalized on Nepal's erratic bowling, scoring her tenth T20I fifty off 26 balls. The duo's 122-run partnership was the highest opening stand in Women's T20 Asia Cup history.

Nepal's Sita Rana Magar slowed India's momentum, but Jemimah Rodrigues' 15-ball 28 not out helped India finish strong. In the chase, Nepal managed only 96 for 9. Arundhati Reddy, replacing the injured Titas Sadhu, impressed with 2 for 28. Deepti Sharma (3 for 13) and Radha Yadav (2 for 12) ensured Nepal never got going.

Player of the Match - Shafali Verma for 81 off 48 / Getty Images

India's dominant performance, showcasing their depth and strength, sets the stage for an exciting knockout phase as they aim for the title.