India Women dominate Thailand with 94-run victory in Asia Cup opener
Shafali Verma's rapid half-century and Deepti Sharma's record-breaking spell secured a strong start for India in their title quest.
The story
At the Dubai International Stadium, India Women launched their Women's Asia Cup 2026 campaign with a dominant 94-run victory over Thailand on Sunday. After being asked to bat first, India posted a competitive 159/9, largely thanks to a blistering 64 off 36 balls from opener Shafali Verma, who smashed eight fours and three sixes. Debutant Pratika Rawal also contributed with 22 runs. Thailand's Suleeporn Laomi was the pick of the bowlers, claiming 3/26, including the key wicket of Verma.
In response, Thailand's chase quickly unraveled. Despite Nannapat Koncharoenkai's resilient 41 off 48 balls, wickets fell consistently around her. India's bowling attack proved too strong, bowling Thailand out for just 65 in 16.1 overs. Deepti Sharma delivered a stunning spell, taking 3 wickets for no runs in just seven balls, and in doing so, became the leading wicket-taker in women's T20I cricket. Nandni Sharma also impressed with 3/18. Verma was named Player of the Match for her impactful innings.
Latest results
| Match | Format | Result | Star |
|---|---|---|---|
| India vs Thailand | WT20I | India won by 94 runs | Shafali Verma (64 runs off 36 balls) & Deepti Sharma (3/0 in 0.7 overs) |
Series in play
Women's Asia Cup 2026. Group stage underway in Dubai. India defeated Thailand by 94 runs in their opening match.
Tables that matter
| Competition | Position | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Women's Asia Cup 2026 Group A | 1st (India Women) | India leads Group A after a commanding 94-run win over Thailand. |
| Women's Asia Cup 2026 Group B | 1st (Sri Lanka Women) | Sri Lanka leads Group B after their opening victory; Bangladesh and Indonesia play today. |
What we'll be watching
- Bangladesh vs Indonesia [T20I], Women's Asia Cup 2026, Dubai (August 31)
- Pakistan vs Thailand [T20I], Women's Asia Cup 2026, Dubai (September 1)
- Sri Lanka vs Indonesia [T20I], Women's Asia Cup 2026, Dubai (September 2)
- India vs Hong Kong, China [T20I], Women's Asia Cup 2026, Dubai (September 3)
- Anticipated clash between India and Pakistan in the Women's Asia Cup 2026, Dubai (September 5)
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