CNN Central News & Network-ITDC India Epress/ITDC News Bhopal: The Indian women’s cricket team began its Women’s T20 Asia Cup 2026 campaign with an emphatic victory. In the match played in Dubai, India handed Thailand a heavy 94-run defeat. Batting first, India scored 159 for 9 in 20 overs, in reply to which Thailand were bowled out for just 65 in 16.1 overs.
The foundation of India’s win was laid by opener Shafali Verma. She played an aggressive innings of 64 runs off just 36 balls, including eight fours and three sixes. Shafali completed her half-century in 26 balls and gave the Indian innings a rapid start. She was named Player of the Match for her performance.
India’s innings, however, faltered after Shafali’s dismissal. Smriti Mandhana scored 19, while debutant Pratika Rawal made 22. Thailand spinner Suleporn Laomi put pressure on India’s middle order by taking three wickets. In the end, a quick unbeaten 15 off eight balls from Kranti Goud helped India reach 159.
Chasing a target of 160, Thailand’s batting collapsed completely in front of the Indian bowlers. Nannapat Koncharoenkai showed some resistance with 41 runs, but she did not get enough support from the other end. Thailand were all out for 65.
For India, Deepti Sharma and Nandini Sharma took three wickets each, while Shri Charani picked up two wickets. Deepti Sharma produced a superb spell, taking three wickets in just seven balls without conceding a run. With this performance, she also claimed the record for becoming the highest wicket-taker in women’s T20 international cricket.
With this win, India have made a strong start to their Asia Cup campaign. The team’s next aim will be to carry the same momentum forward in the tournament.
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