India began their ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2026 campaign in style with a convincing 64-run victory over Pakistan at Edgbaston, powered by Deepti Sharma’s second career T20I five-wicket haul.
A record group stage crowd of 18,814 watched the rivals clash as India posted 170/6 before bowling Pakistan out for 106.
After winning the toss, India suffered early setbacks as Shafali Verma and Jemimah Rodrigues departed cheaply. However, Smriti Mandhana steadied the innings with a superb 68 from 34 balls, surviving two dropped catches and reaching her half-century in the 12th over. She shared a 91-run partnership with captain Harmanpreet Kaur, who contributed 36.
Mandhana was eventually dismissed by Fatima Sana, who also removed Kaur, but Richa Ghosh’s explosive 34 off 17 balls lifted India to their highest Women’s T20 World Cup total against Pakistan.
Chasing a record target, Pakistan made a bright start, reaching 52 without loss in the powerplay thanks to Muneeba Ali and Gull Feroza. But Sharma changed the game, dismissing Gull and Ayesha Zafar as India’s spinners tightened their grip.
Pakistan’s momentum faded as Sree Charani claimed key wickets and Sharma produced a brilliant all-round display, including a run-out of Muneeba for 41. Pakistan collapsed from 58/2 to 106 all out in 17 overs, with Sharma finishing with career-best figures of 5/10 and Charani taking 3/21.
Scores:
India 170/6 (20 overs) – Mandhana 68, Kaur 36; Fatima Sana 2/33
Pakistan 106 all out (17 overs) – Muneeba Ali 41; Deepti Sharma 5/10, Sree Charani 3/21
Result: India won by 64 runs.
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