India Dominates Pakistan in Women's T20 World Cup Opener

In a thrilling start to the Women's T20 World Cup, India showcased their dominance with a 64-run victory over Pakistan. Deepti Sharma's exceptional bowling performance, claiming five wickets, and Smriti Mandhana's elegant half-century were pivotal in securing the win. Despite a valiant effort from Muneeba Ali, Pakistan struggled to keep pace with India's total of 170 runs. This match not only highlighted India's cricketing prowess but also marked Deepti's ascent as the highest wicket-taker in Women's T20 Internationals. Read on to discover the highlights of this exciting encounter.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jun 14, 2026, 23:22 IST

India's Impressive Victory Over Pakistan

In a commanding performance, Deepti Sharma dismantled Pakistan's batting lineup with a remarkable five-wicket haul, while Smriti Mandhana showcased her batting prowess with a stunning half-century. India secured a convincing 64-run victory in their opening match of the Women’s T20 World Cup on Sunday.

Thanks to Mandhana's elegant 68 runs off just 44 balls and Richa Ghosh's powerful 34 runs from 17 deliveries, India set a formidable target of 170 runs for 6 wickets.

Pakistan struggled to respond, with only Muneeba Ali making a notable contribution of 41 runs from 35 balls, as they collapsed for a mere 106 runs in 17 overs.

Deepti, who played a crucial role in a vital 45-run partnership with Ghosh, excelled with the ball, achieving her career-best figures of 5 wickets for just 10 runs in 4 overs. Shree Charani also made her mark with 3 wickets for 21 runs, while Shafali Verma contributed to India's success with her wicket-taking ability.

With this five-wicket haul, Deepti not only led her team to victory but also became the highest wicket-taker in Women’s T20 International history.

Bowling second on the same Edgbaston pitch, India capitalized on the conditions, which offered some turn and grip, making it difficult for batters to play their shots effectively. Deepti was virtually unplayable on this surface.

Deepti's impact was felt in the field as well, where her direct throw ended Muneeba's innings, showcasing her all-round capabilities.

Earlier, Mandhana's batting was a display of elegance, complemented by Ghosh's explosive innings, which propelled India to a winning total.

Ghosh's late surge included a devastating over from left-arm seamer Tasmia Rubab, who conceded 23 runs, effectively breaking Pakistan's resistance.

Mandhana's artistry was evident as she struck boundaries with impeccable timing, including a stunning six off Rubab. Her half-century came off just 34 balls and included nine fours and two sixes.

Although Mandhana was eventually dismissed by Rameen Shamim, who caught her mistimed shot, she had already made a significant impact alongside her captain, Harmanpreet Kaur, who scored 36 runs off 35 balls. Together, they forged a crucial 91-run partnership for the third wicket after India faced early setbacks at 18 for 2.

Despite a cautious start during the Powerplay, the duo capitalized on scoring opportunities, amassing 70 runs in the next seven overs. Mandhana was fortunate to receive two reprieves due to dropped catches by Pakistan's fielders.

While Mandhana's footwork was a visual delight, Kaur effectively utilized her position in the crease to hit boundaries, employing both conventional and slog sweeps.

Following Mandhana's dismissal, India faced a brief slump, with Bharti Fulmali being stumped for a duck and Kaur's flick being caught at square leg.