Team India Triumphs Over Pakistan in ICC Women's T20 World Cup Opener

In a thrilling opener of the ICC Women's T20 World Cup, Team India triumphed over Pakistan by 64 runs. With standout performances from Smriti Mandhana and Deepti Sharma, the Women in Blue demonstrated their prowess on the field. Sachin Tendulkar and BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia praised the team's disciplined approach, setting a strong tone for the tournament. This victory not only marks a significant start for India but also reinforces their status as favorites for the title. Read on for a detailed match recap and player highlights.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jun 15, 2026, 03:59 IST

Historic Victory for Team India

Indian cricket legend Sachin Tendulkar and BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia extended their congratulations to Team India following their impressive victory against Pakistan in the ICC Women's T20 World Cup. The match showcased remarkable bowling performances from spin duo Deepti Sharma and Shree Charani, alongside a powerful half-century from Smriti Mandhana, leading to a 64-run win for India in their tournament opener held in Birmingham on Sunday. As reigning champions in the 50-over format, the Women in Blue have made a strong statement, reinforcing their status as favorites for both the 50-over and 20-over World Cup titles.

Sachin Tendulkar Applauds Team's Performance

Sachin took to X to express his regret for missing what he termed a 'very special performance' while he was in transit. He praised standout players Smriti, Deepti, Shree Charani, and wicketkeeper-batter Richa Ghosh for their exceptional contributions.

"I just landed and caught up with the result. It seems I missed a remarkable performance from our team. While Smriti's innings and Deepti Sharma's five-wicket haul deserve accolades, the efforts from Shree Charani, Richa Ghosh, and the entire team made this a truly comprehensive performance. What a fantastic start to the campaign!" Sachin tweeted.

BCCI Secretary Commends Team's Discipline

BCCI secretary Saikia also praised Team India for their 'disciplined and clinical performance,' which he believes sets a positive precedent for the remainder of the tournament.

"Congratulations to Team India on a strong start to the World Cup campaign. Their disciplined and clinical approach led to a commanding 64-run victory over Pakistan. This win establishes a solid foundation for the tournament ahead. Excellent execution by the entire squad. Jai Hind," Saikia tweeted.

Match Summary: IND vs PAK

In the match, India chose to bat first but faced early setbacks, finding themselves at 18/2 after the dismissals of Shafali Verma (6) and Jemimah Rodrigues (1).

A crucial partnership of 91 runs between Smriti Mandhana (68 runs off 44 balls, including nine fours and two sixes) and captain Harmanpreet Kaur (36 runs off 35 balls, with four boundaries) propelled India past the 100-run mark.

A late surge from Richa Ghosh (34 runs off 17 balls, featuring five fours and a six) helped India finish at 170/6 in their 20 overs.

For Pakistan, Sadia Iqbal and Fatima Sana were the standout bowlers, each claiming two wickets.

During Pakistan's chase, they started well with a 38-run opening partnership but quickly fell apart, collapsing to 91/7 and ultimately 106 all out in 17 overs.

Muneeba Ali (41 runs off 35 balls, with five fours) was the only Pakistani batter to surpass 20 runs.

Deepti Sharma (5/10) and Shree Charani (3/21 in four overs) dominated with their spin bowling, while Shafali also contributed with a wicket.

Deepti was awarded the 'Player of the Match.'