India advanced to the semi-finals of the Asian Games 2026 women’s cricket competition after defeating hosts Japan by eight wickets in a historic quarter-final clash at Korogi Sports Park in Nisshin on Friday.
Japan were bowled out for just 57 in 19.5 overs after India’s spinners produced a disciplined performance. India then chased down the target in only five overs, finishing on 59/2.
The result also marked the first international cricket meeting between the two sides.
Shree Charani Leads India’s Bowling Attack
Shree Charani was the standout bowler for India, claiming four wickets for just 10 runs. She bowled two maiden overs and struck twice in two deliveries as Japan struggled to build momentum.
Deepti Sharma also made history by becoming the first Indian cricketer to take a wicket in two editions of the Asian Games, according to NDTV’s live coverage.
Japan made a solid start despite India’s strong bowling attack. Ayaka Kato-Stafford and Haruna Iwasaki survived the entire powerplay without losing a wicket.
India eventually broke through and wickets began to fall rapidly. Japan were eventually dismissed for 57.
Shafali Verma Finishes The Chase In Style
India’s chase was briefly tested when Japan claimed two wickets, but Shafali Verma quickly took control.
The India opener smashed an unbeaten 40 off just 15 balls, including six boundaries and two sixes. Her explosive knock helped India reach 59/2 in only five overs.
Shafali also contributed with the ball, finishing with figures of 2/13 from four overs.
India To Face Bangladesh In Semi-Final
With the victory, India booked their place in the last four of the women’s cricket competition.
India will face Bangladesh in the semi-final. Pakistan and Sri Lanka will contest the other semi-final, according to the tournament updates.
India entered the Asian Games after winning the Women’s Asia Cup earlier this month. Harmanpreet Kaur’s side defeated Sri Lanka by 72 runs in the final to claim a record-extending eighth Asia Cup title.
The Asian Games campaign now moves into the knockout stage, with India continuing their bid to defend the women’s cricket gold medal.
