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India captain Harmanpreet Kaur was ecstatic about the ruthless manner in which her side dismantled Pakistan, cruising to a seven-wicket victory in their Women's Asia Cup T20 group-stage clash on Saturday. The win underlined India's dominance and a bowling display that left their arch-rivals with barely any recovery room.

India's bowlers set the tone from the get-go as Shree Charani, Prema Rawat, Shafali Verma and Deepti Sharma combined to bowl Pakistan out for just 55. It was Pakistan's lowest-ever total in women's T20 internationals, leaving India with a modest target that they chased down in just 8.4 overs.

India Maintain Intensity Despite Semi-Final Qualification

What Harmanpreet loved most was not the size of the victory but the passion that India showed against Pakistan even when already qualified for the semi-finals.

“It was a very important game for us. We talk about being ruthless, so very happy. All the bowlers have been outstanding, stuck to the plans, read the pitch well and executed well,” Harmanpreet said during the post-match presentation ceremony.

The India captain insisted it was vital to maintain the level of performance regardless of the opponents and circumstances. While India did lose three wickets as they chased the target, Harmanpreet refused to see it as a problem as Pakistan also have a fearful bowling attack.

“It is very important to keep the standards high. I know what this team brings to the table. As far as losing three wickets is concerned, it can happen. Pakistan have a good bowling attack.”

Harmanpreet Kaur Creates T20I Captaincy History

Harmanpreet made history once again on Thursday as she became the first-ever cricketer (male or female) to captain a side in 150 T20 internationals.

The veteran India batter has been a part of 205 of the 228 T20 internationals that the women's team has played since the start of the format. Her contribution will always matter to the team, and she heaped praise on the fans for their support throughout her career.

“I am grateful. I never thought that I would come this far. Keep supporting. Hope I keep continuing the good work,” Harmanpreet said in response to the admiration.

Fatima Sana Defends Pakistan's Decision to Bat First

Pakistan captain Fatima Sana defended her decision to bat first after winning the toss as they lost a five-wicket haul. With a fearful bowling attack, Sana thought it was a good decision to post a large total, but it backfired spectacularly.

“We had a collapse. It was a fresh wicket, and we wanted to put up a maximum total as we had a good bowling side,” Sana said.

Instead, Pakistan scored just 55 in reply which meant that India needed only a routine chase to win which showed the gap between the two teams on the night.

India now have a break ahead of the semi-finals, with the knockout stages of the Women's Asia Cup due to begin on September 10.