Nishin: Indian women cricketers produced a sensational batting performance in the final of the Asian Games in Japan, piling up 216 runs before bowling Sri Lanka out for just 69. India won the final by a massive 147-run margin and secured the gold medal.
With this victory, the Indian women’s cricket team has helped India win the gold medal in women’s cricket at the Asian Games for the second consecutive edition.
In the Women’s T20 final between India and Sri Lanka, India batted first and posted a huge 216 for three in 20 overs. Sri Lanka were set a daunting target of 217 runs to win the gold medal.
Sri Lanka were bowled out for 69 runs, with captain Chamari Athapaththu top-scoring with 29. Spinner Deepti Sharma was India’s leading wicket-taker, claiming three wickets.
Earlier, Smriti Mandhana and Shefali Verma gave India a flying start with a 99-run opening partnership. Mandhana smashed 79 off 45 balls, including seven sixes and five fours, while Shefali scored 48 off 29 balls, with three sixes and three fours.
After both openers were dismissed, wicketkeeper-batter Richa Ghosh continued the onslaught, making a valuable 49 off just 22 balls, including three sixes and six fours.