Smriti Mandhana becomes women’s T20I leading run-scorer

NEW DELHI: (Sports Desk) – Indian opener Smriti Mandhana became the highest run-scorer in women’s T20 international cricket on Sunday as India defeated Bangladesh by 114 runs in the Asian Games semi-final.

Mandhana scored 37 off 19 deliveries, hitting five fours and two sixes, as India posted 195-4 in their allotted 20 overs at Korogi Athletic Park in Nagoya.

Her innings took her career T20I tally to 4,788 runs from 171 innings, surpassing New Zealand all-rounder Suzie Bates’ previous record of 4,758 runs.

However, Shafali Verma was the standout performer for India, producing a sensational unbeaten century. She smashed 100 not out from just 49 balls, including three fours and nine sixes.

Verma completed her maiden T20 international century from the final delivery of India’s innings. She removed her helmet and raised her bat towards her teammates as they applauded her achievement from the boundary.

“It took a lot of years but finally it came, so I’m happy,” Verma said after reaching her first T20I hundred for India.

India then produced a dominant bowling display, dismissing Bangladesh for just 81 in 15.4 overs to secure a place in the final.

India will face Sri Lanka in Tuesday’s gold-medal match. Sri Lanka reached the final after chasing down Pakistan’s 177-4 with more than two overs to spare.

Sri Lankan captain Chamari Athapaththu led the chase with an unbeaten 83 from 50 balls, striking seven fours and six sixes as her team reached 178-2 in 17.5 overs.

Pakistan will face Bangladesh in the bronze-medal match on Tuesday.

Verma credited Indian supporters in Japan for providing the team with confidence and backing throughout the tournament.

She said the players were confident, gave their best during the match and aimed to produce quality cricket.