India defeat Sri Lanka by 147 runs as Mandhana shines in Asian Games final
Sri Lanka were bowled out for 69 runs, 10 less than Mandhana's belligerent match-winning innings as India retained gold.
In a remarkable display of batting prowess, India claimed the women's cricket gold medal at the Asian Games 2026 with a staggering total of 216/3 against Sri Lanka. The defending champions capitalized on favorable conditions after winning the toss, dominating the Sri Lankan bowling attack. Smriti Mandhana and Shafali Verma formed a formidable opening partnership, contributing 99 runs from 60 balls.
Mandhana's blistering 79 off 45 balls, featuring seven sixes, and Verma's 48 off 29 balls set the tone for India's high-scoring innings. Sri Lanka's captain, Chamari Athapaththu, conceded 19 runs in her over as India's openers unleashed their batting assault. Shafali Verma was eventually caught while attempting a reverse sweep against Chamudi Praoboda, handing Harmanpreet Kaur the chance to bat at number three.
Kaur added 19 runs off 17 balls before being caught at long-off. Richa Ghosh's unbeaten 49 off just 22 balls in the death overs ensured India finished the match with a record-breaking total of 216/3. This score surpassed the previous highest total in Women's Asian Games cricket history, set by Hong Kong at 202/4 against Mongolia in 2023.
The Indian innings also marked the second 200-plus total in the history of the women's cricket competition, adding to the significance of this memorable gold medal final.
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