Daijiworld Media Network - Colombo

Colombo, Nov 22: India stormed into the finals of the 1st Women’s T20 World Cup Cricket for the Blind with a commanding nine-wicket victory over Australia at Colombo’s historic P. Sara Oval on Saturday.

Despite a damp outfield from overnight rain, India’s choice to field first proved spot-on. The bowlers kept Australia under pressure throughout, backed by sharp fielding — including a pivotal run-out from captain Deepika that swung the momentum firmly in India’s favour.

Australia’s innings displayed moments of resistance, with B2 batter Julie Neumann scoring 25 off 28 balls, and B3 players Chanakan Buakhao and Courtney Lewis adding 34 (33) and 14 (14) respectively, supported by 20 extras.

India’s chase, however, was a masterclass in control and confidence.

B3 batter Ganga Kadam set the tone with a fluent 41 from 31 deliveries, while B2 standout Basanti Hansda — named Player of the Match — anchored the reply with a superb 45 off 39 balls. B1 finisher Karuna sealed the win in emphatic fashion, smashing 16 runs off just five balls.

India reached 112 with ease, securing a dominant nine-wicket win and a well-deserved place in Sunday’s grand finale.

The second semi-final between Nepal and Pakistan will determine India’s opponent for the historic title clash. With five wins in the round-robin stage and an unbeaten run into the knockouts, India enter the final brimming with confidence and momentum.