Shafali Verma's maiden ton powers India past Bangladesh into gold medal match
Shafali Verma smashed a blistering 49-ball century to power India to a commanding 114-run victory over Bangladesh, setting up a gold medal clash with Sri Lanka.
Shafali Verma's explosive batting prowess was on full display as her blistering maiden T20I century guided India into the gold medal match with a comprehensive demolition of Bangladesh.
The dominant victory sets up a highly anticipated clash against Sri Lanka on Tuesday, where the continental giants will battle for top honors on the grand stage.
Dismantling the Bangladeshi bowling attack from the outset, Verma played a flawless, unbeaten innings of 100 runs from just 49 deliveries. Her supreme ball-striking and aggressive intent powered India to a mammoth total of 195 for 4.
Bangladesh's bowlers struggled to find answers as Verma routinely cleared the ropes, finding able support from the other end to keep the scoreboard ticking at a rapid pace.
Chasing a daunting target of 196, Bangladesh's batting lineup crumbled under relentless pressure. They never looked in the hunt as the Indian bowlers maintained a tight grip throughout the second innings.
The batting collapse saw the Tigresses bundled out for a meager 81, capping off a thoroughly disappointing outing that exposed a massive gulf in class between the two Asian sides ahead of the final showdown.