India Women began their ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2026 campaign with a 64-run victory over Pakistan at Edgbaston in Birmingham. While Smriti Mandhana played a crucial role with the bat, it was Deepti Sharma who stole the spotlight with a record-breaking performance.
The Indian all-rounder delivered a sensational spell that makes Deepti Sharma leading T20I wicket-taker in women’s international cricket history.
India Post a Strong Total
After winning the toss and choosing to bat first, India faced some early setbacks. Shafali Verma and Jemimah Rodrigues were dismissed cheaply, putting pressure on the middle order.
However, Smriti Mandhana responded with a brilliant innings of 68 from 44 balls. She played attacking cricket and kept the scoreboard moving throughout her stay at the crease.
Captain Harmanpreet Kaur provided valuable support with 36 runs, and the pair built a crucial partnership that steadied the innings.
In the final overs, Richa Ghosh added quick runs with an impressive 34 from just 17 balls. Her aggressive batting helped India finish on a strong total of 170 for 6.
Deepti Sharma Bowling Masterclass
The chase began positively for Pakistan, who reached 52 for 1 during the powerplay. At that stage, the contest looked competitive.
That changed when Deepti Sharma entered the attack.
This Deepti Sharma bowling masterclass completely shifted the momentum in India’s favour. She dismissed key batters at important moments and never allowed Pakistan to settle.
Her first breakthrough came when she removed Gull Feroza. Soon after, she sent Ayesha Zafar back to the pavilion, slowing Pakistan’s scoring rate.
Deepti also contributed in the field with a direct hit run-out that dismissed Muneeba Ali, Pakistan’s top scorer with 41 runs.
She then returned later in the innings to destroy the lower order. In her final over, Deepti claimed three wickets and finished with remarkable figures of 5 for 10 from four overs.
Her outstanding spell ensured Pakistan were bowled out for just 106 in 17 overs.
A Historic Record for Deepti Sharma
The match became even more special because of the record Deepti achieved.
With her five-wicket haul, she moved to 166 wickets in Women’s T20 Internationals and became the all-time leading wicket-taker in the format.
The achievement highlights her consistency and importance to Indian cricket over the years. Deepti has been one of India’s most reliable performers with both bat and ball, and this record further strengthens her legacy.
She is also closing in on another major milestone. Her international wicket tally now stands at 354, leaving her just one wicket short of matching Jhulan Goswami’s record as India’s highest wicket-taker in women’s international cricket.
India Women vs Pakistan Analysis
This India Women vs Pakistan analysis shows how India dominated both departments of the game. Mandhana’s attacking half-century provided the platform, while Deepti Sharma’s historic bowling display completely crushed Pakistan’s hopes.
The convincing win gives India an ideal start to their World Cup campaign. With experienced stars performing at their best, India will be confident of carrying this momentum into their upcoming matches.
For now, though, the night belongs to Deepti Sharma, whose record-breaking performance will be remembered as one of the finest moments in Women’s T20 World Cup history.
