Pakistan suffered a 64-run defeat against India in their opening ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2026 match. The Group 1 clash took place at Edgbaston in Birmingham on Sunday. Pakistan now prepares to face South Africa on Wednesday evening at the same venue.
India Post Competitive Total
After electing to field, Pakistan made an encouraging start with two early breakthroughs. Sadia Iqbal dismissed Shafali Verma in the opening over. Soon after, T20 World Cup debutant Tasmia Rubab removed Jemimah Rodrigues.
However, Smriti Mandhana steadied India’s innings with a brilliant 68 from 44 deliveries. She struck nine fours and two sixes during her impressive knock. Additionally, Mandhana shared a 91-run partnership with captain Harmanpreet Kaur, who scored 36.
Later, Richa Ghosh accelerated the scoring with 34 from only 17 balls. Consequently, India finished on 170 for six after 20 overs. Fatima Sana claimed two wickets and reached 50 Women’s T20I wickets. Meanwhile, Sadia Iqbal also picked up two wickets for Pakistan.
Pakistan Falter During Chase
Chasing 171, Pakistan lost wickets regularly despite a promising opening partnership. Muneeba Ali Siddiqui scored a fighting 41 from 35 balls with five boundaries. She also added 38 runs alongside Gull Feroza, who contributed 12.
Nevertheless, Pakistan struggled after the opening stand ended. Ayesha Zafar scored 12 before departing, while Saira Jabeen managed only two. Muneeba’s run-out further dented Pakistan’s hopes during the chase.
Aliya Riaz added 18 runs, but Pakistan eventually collapsed for 106 in 17 overs. India’s Deepti Sharma starred with outstanding figures of five wickets for 10 runs. Furthermore, Shree Charani claimed three wickets to complete India’s dominant victory.
