India vs Bangladesh Live, Women’s Asian Games Semi-Final: Shafali-Smriti off to a steady start as India bat first

10:31 AM IST:

Pre-match thoughts – India Women’s Shreyanka Patil says she has loved her time in Japan so far, adding that she found everything “quite cute and animated”. She mentions that she tried the sushi and liked it, while also revealing that she has several reels planned but hasn’t had time to shoot them yet. Patil mentions that returning to the Indian team after three or four months with an injury was always going to be a challenge, but she is grateful to be back and looks forward to playing more matches and contributing in her role. Reflecting on her recovery, she says being sidelined during the World Cup after picking up an injury in the second game was another valuable experience. Patil adds that staying positive, taking things one day at a time and trying to be happy every day has helped her through her recovery. Talking about the bowling plans against Bangladesh, Patil says the key is to hit the right lines and lengths and maintain accuracy as a bowling unit, aiming to restrict the opposition to a low total before allowing the batsmen to take control. With the pressure of an elimination game, he shares that there is no extra pressure, although he believes that pressure is good and that each player handles it in their own way. Patil adds that the team discussed the game and was excited about the opportunity to reach the final. Patil also says that the mood in the dressing room is very positive, with the team enjoying the experience of playing cricket in a new country for the first time.