Deepti Sharma's record-breaking five-for and Mandhana's fifty power India to emphatic win over Pakistan

India Women made a powerful statement in their opening match of the ICC Women's T20 World Cup 2026, defeating Pakistan Women by 64 runs in a high-profile clash that lived up to its billing.

Led by a brilliant half-century from Smriti Mandhana and a sensational bowling performance from Deepti Sharma, India delivered a complete all-round display to secure a winning start to their World Cup campaign.

The result not only handed India two valuable points but also provided a significant boost to their net run rate in what is expected to be a fiercely contested group stage.

Big Occasion at Edgbaston

Few fixtures in world cricket attract as much attention as an India-Pakistan encounter.

With a packed crowd and millions watching around the globe, both teams understood the importance of starting their tournament strongly.

India ultimately handled the occasion far better and controlled the match from key moments onward.

Pakistan Start Brightly With the Ball

After India opted to bat, Pakistan enjoyed a positive opening phase.

The bowlers maintained disciplined lines and managed to create early pressure on India's top order.

For a brief period, the contest appeared evenly balanced.

Mandhana Takes Charge

Smriti Mandhana responded exactly when her team needed stability.

The experienced left-hander played with confidence and authority, finding boundaries regularly while also rotating strike efficiently.

Her innings gradually shifted momentum in India's favour.

Fifth T20 World Cup Fifty

Mandhana's innings carried additional significance as she registered her fifth half-century in Women's T20 World Cup history.

The milestone further strengthened her reputation as one of India's most dependable performers on the biggest stage.

Her ability to deliver in major tournaments continues to be one of her greatest strengths.

Partnership Stabilizes Innings

India's recovery was built around a crucial partnership involving Mandhana and captain Harmanpreet Kaur.

The duo absorbed pressure effectively before accelerating when opportunities presented themselves.

The stand ensured India recovered strongly after an uncertain start.

Harmanpreet Provides Valuable Support

The Indian captain contributed an important innings that complemented Mandhana's attacking approach.

Her experience helped maintain momentum during the middle overs.

Together they established the platform for a competitive total.

Richa Ghosh Finishes Strongly

As the innings approached its final stages, wicketkeeper-batter Richa Ghosh provided the finishing touch.

Her aggressive strokeplay ensured India maximized the final overs and pushed their score beyond Pakistan's comfort zone.

The late acceleration proved crucial in the overall context of the match.

India Post Challenging Total

By the end of their innings, India had posted 170 for 6.

Considering the pressure associated with an India-Pakistan World Cup encounter, the total represented a strong effort.

The scoreboard immediately placed additional pressure on Pakistan's batting lineup.

Pakistan Begin Chase Positively

To their credit, Pakistan started the chase with intent.

The openers played positively and ensured the required run rate remained within reach during the powerplay.

At that stage, the contest still appeared competitive.

Muneeba Leads Resistance

Muneeba Ali emerged as Pakistan's most promising batter during the chase.

She played several attractive strokes and attempted to keep her team in contention.

However, the support required from the rest of the batting lineup never fully materialized.

Deepti Sharma Changes Everything

The turning point arrived when Deepti Sharma entered the attack.

The experienced spinner immediately applied pressure through her accuracy, variations and control.

What followed was one of the finest bowling performances in Women's T20 World Cup history.

Record-Breaking Five-Wicket Haul

Deepti dismantled Pakistan's batting lineup with a remarkable spell that yielded five wickets for just ten runs.

The performance represented the best T20 International bowling figures of her career and left Pakistan with no route back into the contest.

Her spell transformed a competitive chase into a one-sided affair.

History Created

In addition to winning the match for India, Deepti achieved a significant personal milestone.

Her wickets took her to the top of the all-time list for most wickets in Women's T20 Internationals.

The achievement added further significance to an already memorable performance.

Pakistan Collapse Under Pressure

Once Deepti found her rhythm, Pakistan's innings unraveled rapidly.

Wickets fell at regular intervals as the required run rate climbed steadily.

India's bowlers maintained relentless pressure and never allowed the opposition to recover.

Support From Fellow Spinners

Deepti received valuable support from the rest of India's bowling attack.

The spinners operated effectively as a unit and exploited the conditions superbly.

The collective effort highlighted India's strength in the spin department.

Statement Victory for India

Winning against Pakistan is always special, but the manner of victory will particularly please India's management.

The team excelled in every department and demonstrated the depth that makes them one of the tournament favourites.

The result also sends a strong message to the rest of the competition.

Key Match Numbers

• Result: India Women won by 64 runs
• India Total: 170/6
• Pakistan Total: 106 all out
• Smriti Mandhana: 68 runs
• Deepti Sharma: 5/10
• Player of the Match: Deepti Sharma

Final Word

India's opening victory in the Women's T20 World Cup was built on the perfect combination of batting excellence and bowling brilliance.

Smriti Mandhana's elegant 68 established the platform, while Deepti Sharma's historic five-wicket haul ensured Pakistan never threatened the target.

With a 64-run victory secured, India have launched their World Cup campaign in ideal fashion and reinforced their status as one of the strongest contenders for the title.