In a stellar start to their 2024 Asia Cup campaign, India crushed Pakistan by seven wickets in Dambulla. A disciplined bowling effort, led by Deepti Sharma's 3-20, restricted Pakistan to a modest 108. India's openers, Smriti Mandhana (45 off 31) and Shafali Verma (40 off 29), then swiftly chased down the target, securing a statement victory.
Courtesy: ACC
Key Highlights:
PowerPlay Difference:
Pakistan: Opting to bat first, Pakistan's top-order struggled, scoring only 37/2 with Vastrakar taking early wickets.
India: In contrast, India's openers, Verma and Mandhana, raced to 57/0 at a brisk 9.5 RPO, effectively sealing the game early.
Pakistan's Struggle:
Early Wickets: Vastrakar's sharp bowling removed Pakistan's openers quickly.
Middle Overs: Spinners, led by Patil and Sharma, kept Pakistan in check.
Late Fightback: Despite a brief resistance from Tuba Hassan and Fatima Sana, Pakistan was bowled out for 108.
India's Chase:
Blistering Start: Verma's aggressive play set the tone, followed by Mandhana's attacking stroke play.
Sealing the Win: Though both openers fell, Hemalatha ensured the momentum stayed with India, wrapping up the chase in just 14.1 overs.
Brief Scores:
Pakistan: 108 all out (Sidra Ameen 25, Tuba Hassan 22, Fatima Sana 22*; Deepti Sharma 3-20, Renuka Thakur 2-14)
India: 109/3 in 14.1 overs (Smriti Mandhana 45, Shafali Verma 40; Syeda Aroob 2-9)
India's comprehensive victory underscores their favorites tag as they defend their Asia Cup title.
Next Matches:
India vs UAE: India aims to continue their winning streak.
Pakistan vs Nepal: Pakistan looks to bounce back against a confident Nepal side.
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