Indian eves cruise past Pakistan

Defending champions India inflicted a humiliating 10-wicket defeat on Pakistan in their last league match of the Asia Cup women's cricket tournament in Karachi on Monday to continue their superb unbeaten run.

India bowled out the hosts for a paltry 94 in 47.4 overs before racing to the target in 17.3 overs with all their wickets intact, in what was an inconsequential tie since India and Sri Lanka have already made it to the January 4 final.

The outing at the National Stadium could have provided Pakistan, who had lost their earlier match as well to India, an opportunity to salvage some pride but it only resulted in more embarrassment for the hosts.

Electing to bat, Pakistan were reduced to 49 for five, thanks to the quick double strike by Varsha Raphael.

The efforts of the Pakistani women to resurrect their innings went in vain as Devika Palshikar and Amita Sharma polished off the tail to bundle out the hosts within the 100-run mark.

In reply, the Indian eves were off to a flying start with openers Mithali Raj and Rumeli Dhar taking their team home with ease.

Mithali made 38 off 57 balls with five boundaries, while Rumeli scored a quickfire 54 off 48 balls studded with eight boundaries and a six.