India opened their Women’s T20 World Cup with a stunning 64-run victory over Pakistan at Edgbaston in Birmingham, continuing their unbeaten World Cup record against their archrivals.
Chasing 171 for victory, Pakistan were bowled out for 106 as Indian all-rounder Deepti Sharma delivered a match-winning spell, claiming 5-10 and becoming the highest wicket-taker in women’s T20 internationals with 166 wickets. Young spinner Shree Charani had impressive figures of 3-21.
Pakistan began their chase strongly before India tightened during the middle overs, regaining control. Muneeba scored 41 runs but was run out by a direct hit from Deepti Sharma in a critical moment in the match. Pakistan captain Fatima Sana departed soon after, triggering a collapse that ended with Deepti dismissing the final three batswomen in five deliveries.
India scored an impressive 170, bouncing back well in the final overs. Opener Smriti Mandhana was the standout performer, contributing 68 runs, including nine boundaries, despite being let off the hook twice during her innings. Captain Harmanpreet Kaur contributed 36, while Richa Ghosh provided a late surge with a rapid 34 off 17 balls.
India collected 23 runs in the 19th over to push the total beyond 170, a target that ultimately proved too steep for Pakistan. The victory also continued India’s dominance over Pakistan in Women’s World Cup encounters across both T20 and ODI formats.
Backed by a packed crowd in Birmingham, India’s convincing performance provided a strong start to their pursuit of a maiden Women’s T20 World Cup title.
