Deepti Sharma shone with a remarkable 5-10 bowling performance, guiding India to a convincing 64-run win against Pakistan in their Women’s T20 World Cup opener at Edgbaston. Pakistan, chasing 171 for victory, collapsed from 75 for 3 to 106 all out in 17 overs, as Deepti and N Sree Charani’s spin wreaked havoc.
India’s innings was anchored by Smriti Mandhana’s 68 and Richa Ghosh’s quickfire 34, setting a target of 171. Despite a strong start by Pakistan in the powerplay, India’s spinners tightened the noose in the middle overs, with Deepti’s crucial wickets turning the game in India’s favor.
Muneeba Ali’s 41 and Aliya Riaz’s 18 were the only notable contributions for Pakistan as they succumbed to India’s spin duo. Deepti’s direct hit to dismiss Muneeba proved pivotal, leading to a collapse that saw Pakistan bowled out for 106. This victory gives India a strong start in the tournament.
