India Crush Pakistan by 64 Runs to Open Women’s T20 World Cup 2026 in Style

India Crush Pakistan by 64 Runs to Open Women’s T20 World Cup 2026 in Style
The Indian women’s cricket team launched their ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2026 campaign in emphatic fashion, defeating arch-rivals Pakistan by 64 runs in a commanding Group Stage clash at Edgbaston Stadium.

A superb half-century from vice-captain Smriti Mandhana and a sensational five-wicket haul by Deepti Sharma powered India to a comprehensive victory, handing them a crucial boost in both points and net run rate.

Mandhana and Ghosh Lead India to 170

After winning the toss and electing to bat, India endured an early setback, slipping to 18/2 inside four overs. Smriti Mandhana then steadied the innings with a magnificent 68 off 44 balls, striking nine boundaries and two sixes.

The left-hander shared a vital 91-run partnership with captain Harmanpreet Kaur, who contributed a composed 36 off 35 deliveries. Wicketkeeper-batter Richa Ghosh provided the late fireworks with a blistering 34 off 17 balls, including five fours and a six, helping India post a formidable total of 170/6.

Deepti’s Five-Wicket Masterclass Sinks Pakistan

Chasing 171, Pakistan showed early promise through opener Muneeba Ali, who top-scored with 41 off 35 balls. However, the rest of the batting lineup struggled against India’s disciplined bowling attack.
Deepti Sharma produced a spell to remember, dismantling Pakistan’s batting order with outstanding figures of 5/10 from her four overs. Fellow spinner Shree Charani provided excellent support, claiming 3/21 as Pakistan were bowled out for just 106 in 17 overs.
Perfect Start for India

The convincing victory gives India an ideal start to their Women’s T20 World Cup campaign and provides a valuable net run rate advantage in a challenging Group 1 that also features tournament heavyweights Australia and South Africa.
With both bat and ball firing, India has sent an early warning to the rest of the competition.