India delivered a clinical performance to dismantle Pakistan in their Women’s Asia Cup Group A clash on Saturday, securing a comprehensive seven-wicket victory. The match, which saw Pakistan bowled out for their lowest-ever T20 international total, was highlighted by a masterful display from India’s spin attack and a milestone appearance for captain
Following the result, former India all-rounder
Spinners Dismantle Pakistan Batting Line-up
After winning the toss and opting to bowl, Harmanpreet Kaur deployed her spinners early, a decision that paid immediate dividends on a pitch offering significant turn. Pakistan initially showed promise, reaching 27 without loss, but the momentum shifted dramatically once the spinners were introduced. Muneeba Ali contributed 13 and Shawaal Zulfiqar added 14, but their dismissals sparked a collapse that saw Pakistan lose six wickets for just nine runs.
The pressure remained relentless throughout the innings, with India’s bowlers delivering 78 dot balls. Left-arm orthodox spinner Shree Charani led the charge with figures of 3/7 from her four overs, while leg-spinner Prema Rawat proved equally effective, claiming 3/9. Further support came from Deepti Sharma, who took 2/5, and Shafali Verma, who chipped in with 1/10, as Pakistan were bundled out for 55 in 18.1 overs.
Harmanpreet Marks Milestone with Victory
The fixture served as a historic occasion for Harmanpreet Kaur, who became the first Indian captain—male or female—to lead the national side in 150 T20Is. She celebrated the milestone by guiding her team to a swift victory, hitting the winning six to complete the chase in just 8.4 overs.
Despite the early loss of Shafali Verma, Smriti Mandhana, and Pratika Rawal, India reached the target with ease. Harmanpreet remained unbeaten on 18, while Deepti Sharma finished on 12 not out. This result reinforces India’s historical superiority in the tournament, marking their seventh win in eight Asia Cup meetings against Pakistan. The victory serves as a significant statement of intent as India continues its campaign in the competition.
