New Delhi, Sep 19 : India opened their Asian Games 2026 women’s cricket title defence with a commanding eight-wicket victory over Japan on Friday, September 18, securing a place in the semifinals.
After opting to bowl first, India produced a disciplined bowling performance to dismiss Japan for just 57 runs in 19.5 overs. Left arm spinner Shree Charani led the attack with an impressive spell of 4/10, while Shafali Verma contributed two wickets as the Japanese batting lineup struggled to build partnerships.
India made light work of the modest target, reaching 59 for two in only five overs. Shafali was the leading contributor with an unbeaten 40 from 15 deliveries, providing a rapid finish to the chase.
Japan managed two early breakthroughs, removing Kamalini Gunalan and Bharti Fulmali, but India quickly regained control. Shafali’s aggressive strokeplay ensured that the defending champions completed the chase without any late pressure.
The result sends India through to the semifinals, where they are scheduled to face Bangladesh. The other semifinal will feature Pakistan against Sri Lanka. The final and third place playoff are scheduled for Tuesday.
The women’s cricket competition began before the official opening ceremony of the Aichi-Nagoya Asian Games, which takes place on September 19. Cricket is among the sports that started ahead of the ceremony as organisers manage the packed multi-sport programme.
India’s strong opening performance gives the team another opportunity to compete for the women’s cricket gold medal after winning the title at the previous Asian Games.