Mithali leads India to Asia Cup final

Jaipur, Dec 18 (UNI) Skipper Mithali Raj hit an unbeaten knock of 68 as India thrashed Sri Lanka by seven wickets today to enter the final of the third Women's Asia Cup Cricket Tournament.

Opting to bat first, Sri Lanka, who finished runners-up in the two previous editions, made 171 in 49.3 overs with Dedunu Desilva (78) and E Lokusuriya (57) being the top scorers.

Jhulan Goswami and Trish Kamini captured two wickets each for India while four of Sri Lanka's players were run out as they failed to complete their 50 overs.

The match was inconsequential for the Lankans as they had already booked a berth in the final to be played on December 21.

In reply, Mithali led from the front and batted superbly and made the task easier by putting on 70 runs with Anjum Chopra before the latter was bowled by Lokusuriya for 35.

Mithali faced 108 deliveries and hit seven fours to be adjudged the woman of the match.

India has won all their three matches so far, while Sri Lanka has won two and lost one.

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