India Begin Women’s T20 World Cup 2026 Campaign with Dominant Victory

India made a dream start to their ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2026 campaign with a commanding 64-run victory over arch-rivals Pakistan at Edgbaston, Birmingham. Vice-captain Smriti Mandhana played a brilliant knock of 68 runs off 44 balls, while captain Harmanpreet Kaur contributed 36 runs to steady the innings after an early setback. A late flourish from Richa Ghosh, who smashed 34 runs off just 17 balls, powered India to an impressive total of 170/6 in 20 overs.

Chasing 171, Pakistan struggled against India's spin attack and were bowled out for 106 in 17 overs. Star all-rounder Deepti Sharma produced a sensational spell, claiming 5 wickets for just 10 runs and earning the Player of the Match award. She also became the highest wicket-taker in Women’s T20 International history. Spinner Shree Charani supported brilliantly with three wickets as India registered a memorable win to kick off their World Cup journey.