DUBAI, Aug. 31: India made a commanding start to their Women’s T20 Asia Cup 2026 campaign, defeating Thailand by 94 runs in their opening Group A match in Dubai.
After being asked to bat, India posted 159 for nine in 20 overs. Shafali Verma provided the main impetus with an aggressive 64 off 36 deliveries, giving the defending champions a strong platform despite a middle-order collapse.
Thailand struggled to cope with India’s bowling attack and were dismissed for just 65 in 16.1 overs. Deepti Sharma and Nandani Sharma claimed three wickets each to complete a dominant bowling performance.
Deepti produced exceptional figures of three wickets without conceding a run, underlining India’s control throughout the contest.
The victory gives India an ideal start in Group A, which also features Pakistan and Hong Kong alongside Thailand. The top two teams from each group will advance to the semi-finals.
The match was also significant for Deepti, who became only the third Indian woman to reach 150 appearances in T20 internationals, joining Harmanpreet Kaur and Smriti Mandhana in the exclusive club.
India will look to maintain the momentum as they continue their campaign in the continental tournament.