All four semifinalists for the Women’s Asia Cup 2024 have been confirmed as of Wednesday, following an impressive victory by Sri Lanka over Thailand in the final group stage match of the tournament. Sri Lankan skipper Chamari Athapaththu led her team to a convincing win, completing a hat-trick of victories and joining defending champions India in achieving this feat.
In a match that displayed their dominance, Sri Lanka effortlessly overhauled a modest target set by Thailand, chasing down 94 runs with all 10 wickets intact. Athapaththu played a stellar role, remaining unbeaten on 49 runs. She was complemented by Vishmi Gunaratne, who also stayed not out, contributing 39 runs. The Sri Lankan team made short work of their task, wrapping up the game in just 11.3 overs.
This decisive victory means that the semifinal line-up for the Women’s Asia Cup is now firmly established. India and Pakistan had already booked their spots from Group A. India, the reigning champions, cemented their position at the top of Group A with a comprehensive 82-run triumph over Nepal. Pakistan, having also shown strong form, ended as the runners-up in the group.
The semifinal matches promise to be thrilling encounters. India, as the group leaders, will take on Bangladesh, who secured the second position in Group B. Notably, Bangladesh is the only other team apart from India to have won the continental championship in women’s cricket. Meanwhile, Pakistan will face off against Sri Lanka, who topped Group B with their undefeated run.
Both semifinals are scheduled for the same day, July 26, Friday. The India vs. Bangladesh match is set to begin at 2 PM, while the Pakistan vs. Sri Lanka encounter will follow later in the evening, starting at 7 PM.
. The grand finale of the tournament will then take place on Sunday, July 28, where the two victorious semifinal teams will battle it out for the coveted title.
Thailand had a slim chance of advancing to the semifinals, but their hopes were dashed against a formidable Sri Lankan team. To progress, Thailand needed a significant victory over Sri Lanka to surpass Bangladesh on net run rate (NRR). However, the encounter proved too challenging, as Athapaththu and her players overwhelmed the Thai side.
Sri Lankan bowlers showcased their skill and precision, restricting Thailand to a mere 93/7 in their allotted 20 overs. Kavisha Dilhari was particularly effective, claiming two wickets, while Achini Kulasuriya, Sugandika Kumari, Priyadharshani, and skipper Chamari Athapaththu each took one wicket. Thailand’s wicketkeeper and batter, Nannapat Koncharoenkai, was the lone standout performer for her team, scoring 47 off 53 deliveries.
This comprehensive display by Sri Lanka eliminated any uncertainty and set up an exciting final phase of the Women’s Asia Cup. The confirmed semifinal match-ups highlight the competitive nature of the tournament, with each team aiming to outplay the other in a bid for glory.
India, led by their experienced captain, will rely on their depth and experience in big-match situations. Their combination of solid batting and disciplined bowling will be crucial against Bangladesh. On the other hand, Bangladesh would be hoping to replicate their past success against India, banking on their aggressive brand of cricket and tactical acumen.
The showdown between Pakistan and Sri Lanka is equally compelling. Pakistan’s balanced side, known for their strategic play, will face a resilient Sri Lankan team brimming with confidence after their group-stage success. The battle between Pakistan’s tactical prowess and Sri Lanka’s aggressive gameplay should make for a fascinating contest.
As the tournament heads into its final stages, fans eagerly await the high-octane action that is sure to unfold. With national pride and regional supremacy at stake, the Women’s Asia Cup 2024 semifinals promise to deliver thrilling cricket and showcase the best of women’s talent in the sport.
The excitement is palpable, and the anticipation builds as teams prepare for the decisive matches that will determine the champions of the Women’s Asia Cup 2024, a testament to the growing popularity and competitive spirit of women’s cricket in the region.
