Shafali makes 64, Deepti strikes three as India storm into 10th Asia Cup final after 40-run win over Bangladesh

India are in the final of the 2026 Women’s Asia Cup (Image: IANS) India produced another dominant performance with bat and ball to beat Bangladesh by 40 runs to reach the final of the 2026 Women’s Asia Cup at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium on Thursday. After posting 149/6 in their 20 overs, the Indian bowlers came under pressure to restrict Bangladesh to 109/7 and successfully defend what initially looked like a modest total on a slow pitch.The win extended India’s unbeaten run in the tournament and secured a place in their 10th consecutive Women’s Asia Cup final. They will face the winner of the second semi-final between defending champions Sri Lanka and Pakistan on September 13 in the title clash.

A staggering 64 Shafali lifts in India

Bangladesh won the toss and elected to field but Shafali Varma seized the opportunity to put India on the front foot.The explosive opener smashed 64 off 40 balls, hitting seven fours and three sixes as she held India’s innings together after vice-captain Smriti Mandhana fell for just two. Shafali rode his luck after being dropped three times but made Bangladesh pay with an attacking strike that gave India a competitive total.Captain Harmanpreet Kaur struggled for fluency but contributed 24 off 28 balls, including two sixes, while Richa Ghosh added an important 21 off 16 deliveries. Deepti Sharma then provided the late impetus with a quick 13 off six balls to help India finish just short of 150.

Deepti gets Bangladesh into trouble

Bangladesh needed 150 to reach the final but struggled to maintain the pace during their chase. Deepti Sharma once again proved the difference with the ball as he claimed 3/26 in four overs and repeatedly broke Bangladesh’s resistance.Nandani Sharma also impressed, taking 2/10 from two overs, including the last wicket of the innings. Bangladesh’s top order showed flashes of resistance, with Dilara Akter scoring 21 off 26 balls and Shorna Akter hitting a brisk 22 off 18. But the batting line-up could not absorb India’s sustained pressure.The Tigresses lost wickets at regular intervals as India stepped up their chase. With the required increase in pace, Bangladesh could reach 109/7 in just 20 overs, falling by 40 runs.The innings ended in a fitting manner for India when Nandani Sharma dismissed Rabeya Khan. Khan attempted a slower delivery but ended up clearing the stumps with her bat while completing the shot.

India are aiming for another Asia Cup title

India’s latest win keeps their unbeaten campaign intact and sends them into yet another Asia Cup final. The seven-time champions now face the winner of the Sri Lanka vs Pakistan match, with the final scheduled for September 13.