Traditional rivals India and Pakistan will face each other in the second match of the Women’s Asia Cup 2024 at Rangiri Dambulla International Stadium on Friday.
The Indian women's cricket team has a commendable record in the Women’s Asia Cup T20 as they have won 17 out of 20 matches so far, including a title they clinched in 2022 by beating Bangladesh.
Other than that, they also boast an impressive record against Pakistan with 11 wins and just three defeats in 14 matches.
India will be led by the experienced Harmanpreet Kaur while Nida Dar will captain the Pakistani team.
"This tournament holds significant importance for us as we respect it equally and aim to excel both at the Asian and global levels. Our focus remains unchanged, whether we are preparing for the T20 World Cup or any other major tournament. Every game is crucial, and we strive to perform our best," Kaur stated at the captains' press conference.
"The challenge is to continue the successful strategies we've implemented in previous Asia Cups, maintain our dominance over other teams, and enjoy our cricket," she added.
"We always relish playing against Pakistan, but every team is important. Our goal is to consistently play good cricket, and we will stick to this approach," Kaur said ahead of their opening match.
Pakistan's captain, Nida Dar, admitted that India play T20 cricket with a great approach so it will be an important match. "Playing against India is valuable as they play with a great approach in T20s. This series is crucial for us to learn from them," Dar said.
Eight teams are in the battle as the tournament is set to be held in the T20 format for the fifth edition in a trot. All matches of the competition will take place at Dambulla International Cricket Stadium.
Women’s Asia Cup 2024 Schedule (Local Time)
July 19, Friday - UAE vs Nepal - 2:00 PM
July 19, Friday - India vs Pakistan - 7:00 PM
July 20, Saturday - Malaysia vs Thailand - 2:00 PM
July 20, Saturday - Sri Lanka vs Bangladesh - 7:00 PM
July 21, Sunday - India vs UAE - 2:00 PM
July 21, Sunday - Pakistan vs Nepal - 7:00 PM
July 22, Monday - Sri Lanka vs Malaysia - 2:00 PM
July 22, Monday - Bangladesh vs Thailand - 7:00 PM
July 23, Tuesday - Pakistan vs UAE - 2:00 PM
July 23, Tuesday - India vs Nepal - 7:00 PM
July 24, Wednesday - Bangladesh vs Malaysia - 2:00 PM
July 24, Wednesday - Sri Lanka vs Thailand - 7:00 PM
July 26, Friday - Semi-final 1 - 2:00 PM
July 26, Friday - Semi-final 2 - 7:00 PM
July 28, Sunday - Final - 7:00 PM
