Dubai, September 9, 2026 (Yes Punjab News)
India opener Shafali Verma has backed the team’s struggling middle order to deliver in the crucial Women’s Asia Cup semi-final against Bangladesh, describing their recent lack of runs as a temporary phase.
India’s opening pair of Shafali and vice-captain Smriti Mandhana have shouldered much of the run-scoring responsibility in the tournament, while the rest of the batting lineup has struggled for consistency. The team’s vulnerability was highlighted by the loss of eight wickets for just 46 runs against Thailand earlier in the competition.
However, Shafali expressed confidence in her teammates ahead of Thursday’s knockout clash at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium.
“There are a bit of bad days. But they all are very good players and very good batters,” Shafali told reporters at the pre-match press conference. Backing finishers including Bharti and Richa, she said she was confident they would perform when the team needed them most.
Seven-time champions India reached the semi-finals after defeating Pakistan by seven wickets in their final Group A match. Shafali said the four-day break had allowed the squad to recover while also giving them time to continue preparations.
The opener has scored 104 runs in three matches but said she approaches every innings as a fresh start, carrying only the confidence gained from previous performances.
Shafali also said Dubai’s slow, turning conditions were familiar to Indian players, with the pitches offering similarities to conditions back home. She added that the team was prepared to deal with the turn and adapt accordingly.
On the possibility of changes to the playing XI, Shafali said the decision rested with the captain, adding that her focus was simply on giving her best for the team.
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