India crush Pakistan by seven wickets in Women’s Asia Cup

DUBAI: India produced a dominant bowling display to defeat Pakistan by seven wickets in their Women’s T20 Asia Cup Group A clash at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium on Saturday, leaving Pakistan with a major setback in their bid to reach the semi-finals.

Pakistan, after winning the toss and electing to bat, struggled against India’s disciplined bowling attack and were dismissed for just 55 runs in 18.1 overs — their lowest-ever total in Women’s T20 Internationals.

The innings initially appeared under control as Muneeba Ali and Shawaal Zulfiqar put together 27 runs for the opening wicket. But once Muneeba departed for 13, Pakistan’s batting collapsed rapidly, with wickets falling at regular intervals.

Shawaal was the only other Pakistan batter to reach double figures, scoring 14. India’s spinners then tightened the grip, with Shree Charani and Prema Rawat taking three wickets each, while Deepti Sharma claimed two. Charani was later named Player of the Match.

Chasing only 56, India wasted little time. Shafali Verma immediately signalled their intent by hitting a six from the first ball of the innings, and India reached 57 for three in just 8.4 overs. Harmanpreet Kaur remained unbeaten on 18, while Deepti Sharma finished on 12 not out.

Pakistan captain Fatima Sana briefly gave her side hope by taking all three Indian wickets, finishing with figures of 3-17, but the target was far too small to defend.

The match also marked a significant milestone for Harmanpreet Kaur, who led India in her 150th T20I as captain, becoming the first player to reach the landmark.

For Pakistan, the defeat puts greater pressure on their remaining group-stage campaign. They are scheduled to face Hong Kong next, with qualification for the knockout stage now firmly in focus.