Bangladesh Women vs India Women: Renuka Thakur Wrecks Bangladesh to Set Up India's Title Defense

Key Highlights

• Renuka Thakur took 3-10 as India dismissed Bangladesh for 110 in the Women's Asia Cup semi-final.
• India will now face Sri Lanka in the final on Saturday.

Pacer Renuka Thakur Stars as India Enter Women's Asia Cup Final

India cruised into the final of the Women's Asia Cup on Tuesday after thrashing Bangladesh by 109 runs in the first semi-final in Sylhet. Pacer Renuka Thakur was the star of the show for India, taking 3-10 from her four overs to dismantle Bangladesh's top order. Thakur struck twice in the first over, removing openers Shamima Sultana and Murshida Khatun cheaply, and then returned in her final over to account for captain Nigar Sultana.

Bangladesh never recovered from Thakur's early onslaught, and their innings folded for just 110 in 19.4 overs. India's spinners then took over, with Deepti Sharma (2-15) and Rajeshwari Gayakwad (2-18) sharing four wickets between them.

In contrast to Bangladesh's struggles, India's batting lineup had a field day. Smriti Mandhana top-scored with 50, while Sabbhineni Meghana (30) and skipper Harmanpreet Kaur (24 not out) also made significant contributions. India finished on 219-6 from their 20 overs, setting Bangladesh an imposing target.

With the victory, India will now face Sri Lanka in the final on Saturday. Sri Lanka defeated Thailand in the other semi-final earlier in the day.