After ODI success, Pratika Rawal makes T20I debut in Women's Asia Cup opener

India began their Women's T20 Asia Cup journey with a convincing 94-run win against Thailand on Sunday. Despite a late batting collapse, the Indian team showcased a dominant bowling performance to secure the victory. Shafali Verma set the platform with a stellar knock of 64 runs off 36 balls, including eight fours and three sixes.

Debutant Pratika Rawal contributed 22 off 18 balls, helping India reach 101/2 after 10 overs. Smriti Mandhana added 19 off 10 balls, but was run out after scoring four boundaries. However, India's fortunes took a dramatic turn after reaching 108/2, slipping to 137/9 thanks to Thailand's resilient bowling.

Leg-spinner Suleeporn Laomi was the standout performer for Thailand, claiming 3/26. Pratika Gaud's unbeaten 15 runs aided India in pushing their total to 159/9. India's bowlers demonstrated a clinical display, with Kranti Gaud and Nandni Sharma removing Thailand's openers early on. Nandni Sharma finished with three wickets, while Deepti Sharma produced a remarkable spell, taking 3/0 in just 1.1 overs.

Deepti Sharma also became the leading wicket-taker in women's T20I cricket with her three-wicket haul. Thailand struggled to cope with India's attack and were eventually bowled out for a paltry 65, with Nannapat Koncharoenkai providing some resistance with 41 off 48 balls. Despite Koncharoenkai's efforts, India wrapped up the contest with a 94-run victory, marking a strong start to their Asia Cup campaign.