19th Asian Games 2023: India’s Women cricket team get automatic Semi-finale berth

Asian Games 2023

The women’s T20 tournament at the Asian Games 2023 witnessed unexpected twists as rain led to the cancellation of both quarter-final matches. Consequently, arch-rivals India and Pakistan advanced to the semi-finals due to their higher seeding. Pakistan’s clash with Indonesia didn’t even start, while India displayed their dominance against Malaysia before rain halted play.

In the initial quarter-final, India faced off against Malaysia, and Pakistan was set to take on Indonesia in the second encounter. Unfortunately, relentless rain in Hangzhou disrupted these eagerly awaited matches, preventing both teams from taking the field.

Amidst the gloomy weather, India’s Women in Blue demonstrated their cricketing prowess in the quarter-final against Malaysia. Because of the continuous downpour, the game was reduced to a 15-overs-a-side contest.

India, batting first after winning the toss, capitalized on the truncated match. The young batting sensation, Shafali Verma, led the charge with a scintillating 39-ball 67, featuring four boundaries and five towering sixes. Her aggressive batting set the tone for India’s innings, leaving the Malaysian bowlers searching for answers.

Jemimah Rodrigues added to India’s firepower with an important unbeaten 47 runs. Their partnership enabled India to post a formidable total of 173/2 in their allotted 15 overs, despite the challenging conditions.

As Malaysia prepared to chase a steep target, rain interrupted the game just two balls into their innings. The showers persisted, making the outfield wet and unplayable. Ultimately, the umpires had no option but to abandon the match.

The Malaysian players felt disappointed, as they were eager to challenge India’s imposing total. However, the unrelenting weather prematurely ended their Asian Games campaign.

As the Asian Games 2023 women’s cricket tournament progresses, attention now shifts to the semi-finals, where India and Pakistan will strive to continue their pursuit of gold in an event marked by unpredictable weather challenges.