In a clash that promised fireworks and delivered pure domination, India Women launched their ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2026 campaign with a commanding 64-run victory over arch-rivals Pakistan at Edgbaston on Sunday.
It was a masterclass in all-round cricket, headlined by vice-captain Smriti Mandhana’s fluent half-century and off-spinner Deepti Sharma’s career-best five-wicket haul that left the Pakistani batting lineup in tatters.
Opting to bat first after winning the toss, India posted a competitive 170 for 6 in their 20 overs. Smriti Mandhana led the charge with a classy 68 off 44 balls, studded with nine boundaries and two sixes, setting a strong platform. Captain Harmanpreet Kaur contributed a steady 36, while explosive keeper-batter Richa Ghosh provided the late acceleration with a quickfire 34 off 17 balls. Pakistan’s bowlers, led by Fatima Sana and Sadia Iqbal (both with two wickets), managed to keep things somewhat tight but couldn’t prevent India from reaching a defendable total.
The real drama unfolded when Pakistan came out to chase 171. Early momentum with Muneeba Ali’s 41 gave them brief hope, but once the Indian spinners took over, the game turned into a one-sided affair. Deepti Sharma was simply unplayable, returning staggering figures of 5 wickets for just 10 runs in four overs — including a sensational three-wicket burst in a single over that broke the back of the innings. She was brilliantly supported by left-arm spinner Sree Charani, who claimed 3 for 21, and Shafali Verma chipping in with one. Pakistan collapsed from 75 for 3 to 106 all out in just 17 overs. Captain Fatima Sana was dismissed for a golden duck, and the lower order offered virtually no resistance as the Indian spinners wove a web around the batters.
A Statement Win for the Ages
This wasn’t just a victory — it was a powerful statement. India outclassed Pakistan in every department: batting depth, spin bowling prowess, and fielding intensity. Deepti’s spell not only earned her Player of the Match honours but also etched her name deeper into Indian cricket folklore, as she became a standout performer on the big stage once again.
The win boosts India’s net run rate significantly in what is expected to be a tightly contested group stage. With this result, the #WomenInBlue have set the benchmark early in the tournament, sending a clear message to other contenders: they are here to dominate.
As celebrations erupted on the field with the Indian dugout and fans waving the tricolour, one thing was crystal clear — India’s women’s team is peaking at the right time. The road to the title has begun on the highest note possible.
Stay tuned for more action from the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2026! 
