Shafali Verma's Blazing Century Powers India Women to 195/4 vs Bangladesh in Asian Games Semi-Final

Shafali Verma smashed a stunning unbeaten century to power India Women to a commanding 195 for 4 against Bangladesh Women in the second semi-final of the Women's Asian Games 2026 at Korogi Sports Park, Nisshin.

After India won the toss and chose to bat, Shafali blazed her way to 100 not out off just 49 balls, laced with 3 fours and 9 sixes, becoming the first batter to score a century at the Asian Games. Her knock also went down as the sixth-fastest century in Women's T20I history by balls faced.

Smriti Mandhana gave India a flying start with a quickfire 37 off 19 at the top, while captain Harmanpreet Kaur chipped in with 40 off 33 in a 51-run stand with Shafali to keep the momentum going through the middle overs. Bharti Fulmali finished things off with an unbeaten 9 off 5 in the final over.

Bangladesh's bowlers were largely disciplined but couldn't stem the flow of boundaries once Shafali got going. Marufa Akter, Shanjida Akter Meghla, Rabeya Khan and Nahida Akter shared a wicket each.

Bangladesh, who advanced to the semis after their quarter-final against China was washed out, now face a stiff chase of 196 to book a place in Sunday's gold medal final against Sri Lanka.