Marking her 150th appearance for India, Sharma produced a sensational spell of 3/0, dismantling the Thai middle order to reach a career tally of 171 wickets. This performance saw her surpass Thailand’s Thipatcha Putthawong, who moved to 170 wickets after taking one scalp during the same contest. Sharma’s achievement also made her the first Indian bowler to secure three or more wickets in a T20I without conceding a single run.
A Record-Breaking Display in Dubai
The match proved to be a landmark occasion for the Indian star, who became only the third player from her country to reach the 150-cap milestone, joining Harmanpreet Kaur and Smriti Mandhana. Her bowling figures of 3/0 eclipsed the previous Indian record for the fewest runs conceded in a three-plus wicket haul, which was held by Renuka Singh, who recorded 3/5 against Sri Lanka in 2022.
Sharma’s dominance was evident as she claimed two wickets in the ninth over before returning in the 17th to dismiss wicketkeeper-batter Nannapat Koncharoenkai with her first delivery. Her efforts were supported by a clinical bowling display from the rest of the attack, with Nandani Sharma taking 3/18 and Shree Charani claiming 2/10. Thailand struggled to find any momentum, ultimately being bowled out for just 65 runs in 16.1 overs.
Shafali Verma’s Explosive Start
India’s victory was set up by an aggressive batting display from opener Shafali Verma, who blazed her way to 64 from just 36 deliveries. Her innings, which included eight fours and three sixes, saw her reach her 19th T20I half-century in only 26 balls. Despite a strong start that saw the team race past 100 in the first 10 overs, India faced a mid-innings collapse triggered by Thailand’s leg-spinner Suleeporn Laomi.
Laomi, who finished with figures of 3/26, sparked a slide that saw India lose seven wickets for just 29 runs, slipping from 108/2 to 137/9. A late cameo from Kranti Gaud, who remained unbeaten on 15 off eight balls, helped India post a competitive total of 159/9. While the batting lineup faltered late, the bowling unit ensured a comfortable start to the tournament. India now looks ahead to their next Group A fixture against Hong Kong, scheduled for Thursday.
