India Women produced an aggressive batting display against Thailand Women in their Women's Asia Cup 2026 encounter, with opener Shafali Verma leading the charge with a brilliant half-century. The right-handed batter smashed 64 runs from just 36 deliveries, providing India with the momentum needed during the innings.
Shafali's explosive knock included eight fours and three sixes, as she maintained a strike rate of 177.78. Her attacking approach put Thailand's bowlers under pressure and made her the standout performer among India's batters.
Shafali Verma Dominates With 64
Shafali Verma was the clear star of India's batting effort. She found the boundary regularly and converted her start into a crucial 64.
Her innings was particularly important because India needed a strong start in the T20 format. The aggressive opener attacked the Thailand bowling from the beginning and ensured that India's run rate remained high.
With three sixes and eight fours, Shafali accounted for a significant portion of India's total and once again demonstrated why she remains one of India's most dangerous T20 batters.
Pratika Rawal Makes Impact on T20I Debut
Pratika Rawal also made an encouraging contribution, scoring 22 runs from 18 balls. Her innings included two fours and a six.
The match was particularly significant for Rawal as she made her T20I debut. While she could not convert her start into a bigger score, her contribution helped India maintain momentum at the top of the order.
Smriti Mandhana Provides Quick Start
India vice-captain Smriti Mandhana added another quick contribution, scoring 19 runs off 10 balls.
Mandhana's innings featured four boundaries, giving her an impressive strike rate of 190. Her aggressive start complemented Shafali's attacking batting and helped India get off to a strong beginning.
Kranti Gaud Adds Late Runs
Kranti Gaud provided India's innings with a late boost, remaining unbeaten on 15 from eight balls.
Her quickfire contribution was valuable in the closing stages as India looked to maximise its scoring during the final overs.
India Women Top Performers
- Player Runs Balls
- Shafali Verma 64
- Pratika Rawal 22
- Smriti Mandhana 19
- Kranti Gaud 15
India's batting performance was led by Shafali's outstanding strike rate and supported by useful contributions from Rawal, Mandhana and Gaud. The match also provided an opportunity for emerging players such as Pratika Rawal to gain valuable international experience.
With the Women's Asia Cup 2026 featuring some of the best teams in Asian women's cricket, India's strong batting display against Thailand will be an important confidence booster as the tournament progresses.
