Tejal Hasanbis produced a match-winning unbeaten 51 off 34 balls and leg-spinner Prema Rawat claimed 3 for 12 as India A defended the ACC Women's Asia Cup Rising Stars title with a commanding 46-run victory over Bangladesh A in the final here on Sunday.
Batting first on a slow, turning pitch, India A found themselves in deep trouble at 44 for four. However, Hasanbis, who has played ODIs for India, and captain Radha Yadav, another international, staged a crucial 89-run partnership for the fifth wicket. Hasanbis batted with flair and authority, striking at 150.00 and clearing the ropes twice, while Radha contributed a composed 36 off 30 balls. Their stand lifted India A to a competitive 134 for seven in 20 overs.
Given the challenging conditions and the strength of the Indian bowling attack, the total proved more than adequate. Bangladesh A never mounted a serious chase, collapsing to 88 all out in 19.1 overs.
Prema Rawat, fresh from RCB's successful Women's Premier League campaign, was the standout bowler. Giving the ball generous flight and extracting sharp turn and bounce, she dismantled the Bangladesh middle order with classical leg-spin. Her figures of 3 for 12 in four overs proved decisive.
Also read: Women's Asia Cup: India A dominate Pakistan
The procession began early when opener Ishma Tanjim was dismissed for a low score in the third over, caught off pacer Saima Thakor after charging down the track unsuccessfully. Prema then struck with a leg-break that gripped and bounced extra to take the outside edge of Shamima Sultana.
Bangladesh lost wickets at regular intervals and never threatened the target. India A's disciplined bowling, backed by sharp fielding, ensured a comfortable defence.
This victory marks a successful title defence for India A, having also defeated Bangladesh A in the inaugural final of the tournament in 2023. Hasanbis's knock stood out for its skill and composure under pressure. While the top four contributed minimally, her aggressive yet controlled approach made the decisive difference on a surface where most batters struggled to score freely.
The triumph underlines India A's depth in women's emerging talent and their ability to perform under pressure in subcontinental conditions, with both Hasanbis and Prema showcasing the quality that could see them push for senior international honours.
Follow us
