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Xtra Time Web Desk: That's exciting news! The expansion of the Women's Asia Cup to include eight teams marks a significant development in the growth of women's cricket in the region. With the tournament scheduled to take place in Dambulla, Sri Lanka, from July 19 to 28, it will provide a platform for players from across Asia to showcase their talent and compete at an international level.

The decision to hold the Women's Asia Cup ahead of the T20 World Cup in September-October is strategic, as it allows teams to fine-tune their preparations and gain valuable match practice before the global event.

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Defending champions India have been drawn in Group A alongside Pakistan, Nepal and the UAE. The other group features Bangladesh, Malaysia, Sri Lanka and Thailand. Only 7 teams featured in the 2022 edition of the tournament, which was held after postponement due to Covid-19 pandemic.

"The increased participation promises to make this tournament even more competitive and thrilling for cricket fans across the region. In line with the ACC's vision for inclusivity and equality in cricket, the Women's Asia Cup 2024 will continue the tradition of having all female referees and umpires, following the successful implementation of the same in the previous edition,' the ACC said in a statement.

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India, 7-time champions of the Asia Cup, will begin their campaign against the UAE on July 19 and then take on Pakistan before facing Nepal on July 23.

Top two teams from each group will qualify for the semi-final on July 26. The final of the tournament will be played on July 28.

FULL SCHEDULE OF WOMEN'S ASIA CUP 2024

India vs UAE, Pakistan vs Nepal on July 19

Malaysia vs Thailand, Sri Lanka vs Bangladesh on July 20

Nepal vs UAE, India vs Pakistan on July 21

Sri Lanka vs Malaysia, Bangladesh vs Thailand on July 22

Pakistan vs UAE, India vs Nepal on July 23

Bangladesh vs Malaysia, Sri Lanka vs Thailand on July 24

Two Semi-Final on July 26

Final on July 28