Fri Oct 11 11:44:30 UTC 2024: ## India Clinch Biggest T20 World Cup Win, Eyeing Semi-final Spot

**Dubai, UAE:** India recorded their most resounding victory in Women’s T20 World Cup history, crushing Sri Lanka by a massive 82 runs on Wednesday. The dominant win propels India into second place in Group A, with a superior net run rate compared to New Zealand. This sets the stage for a crucial final group match against reigning champions Australia.

India’s batting prowess was on full display as Smriti Mandhana (50) and Shafali Verma (43) put on a 98-run opening stand. Despite losing both in quick succession, Harmanpreet Kaur’s explosive 52 off just 27 balls guided India to a tournament-high total of 172 for three.

Sri Lanka’s chase was effectively extinguished from the outset. Radha Yadav’s early catch to dismiss Vishmi Gunaratne set the tone. Chamari Athapaththu and Harshitha Samarawickrama followed quickly, leaving Sri Lanka reeling at 6 for 3. While Kavisha Dilhari (21) and Anushka Sanjeewani (20) offered some resistance, India’s spinners kept the scoring rate in check, ultimately bowling Sri Lanka out for 90 with a ball to spare.

A win against Australia would virtually guarantee India a semi-final berth, but a loss would necessitate a New Zealand slip-up against either Sri Lanka or Pakistan. Verma’s impressive 43 took her past 2000 T20I runs, a feat achieved by no other player at such a young age. India’s performance was a testament to their dominance in the group stage, setting the stage for an exciting showdown with Australia.

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