8th continental title: Mandhana, Verma break records as India crush Sri Lanka in Asia Cup Final

Dubai: The Indian women's cricket team clinched a record-extending eighth Women's Asia Cup title after defeating Sri Lanka by 72 runs in the final at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium on 13 September 2026. India successfully defended a formidable target of 184, bowling Sri Lanka out for 111 on the final ball of the match to reclaim the continental crown. The victory capped a dominant campaign in Dubai, re-establishing India's hegemony in Asian women's cricket.

Mandhana and Verma's Record Opening Stand

India's total of 183/5 was anchored by an explosive opening partnership between Shafali Verma and Smriti Mandhana after captain Harmanpreet Kaur won the toss and opted to bat. The duo forged a 129-run opening stand, the highest opening partnership ever recorded in the final of a women's T20I tournament. Verma raced to a 24-ball half-century, setting a record for the fastest fifty in Women's Asia Cup history, before falling for 68 off 39 balls. Mandhana struck 59 off 39 deliveries, while late cameos from Richa Ghosh and Gunalan Kamalini lifted India to their highest score of the tournament.

Charani and Deepti Dismantle Sri Lankan Chase

Facing a required run-rate of over nine an over, Sri Lanka's run chase stumbled almost immediately against a disciplined Indian bowling attack. Pacer Kranti Gaud struck in the first over by bowling opener Imesha Dulani, before left-arm spinner Shree Charani delivered a match-winning spell, taking 4 for 20 in her four overs. Off-spinner Deepti Sharma provided crucial support with figures of 3 for 19, dismantling Sri Lanka's middle order. Despite a valiant 36 from Sri Lanka captain Chamari Athapaththu, the defending champions were dismissed for 111, sealing a comprehensive 72-run victory for India.