Shafali’s 64, Deepti's 3/0 help India begin Women’s Asia Cup campaign with convincing 94-run win over Thailand

India kicked off their Women's T20 Asia Cup campaign with a dominant 94-run victory over Thailand on Sunday, showcasing an impressive bowling display to overcome a late batting collapse. Shafali Verma spearheaded the Indian innings, scoring 64 runs off 36 balls, including eight fours and three sixes, while debutant Pratika Rawal added 22 off just 18 balls.

Pratika's innings was cut short when she was run out after scoring four boundaries. Despite Smriti Mandhana's contribution of 19 runs off just 10 balls, India faltered after reaching 108/2, eventually finishing at 137/9.

Leg-spinner Suleeporn Laomi was the standout performer for Thailand, taking 3/26. Kranti Gaud, who remained unbeaten on 15, and Nandni Sharma, who was not out at 15, helped India push their total to 159/9. India's bowlers, including Deepti Sharma who took an astonishing 3/0 in just 1.1 overs, inflicted a heavy defeat on Thailand, who were all out for a mere 65 runs, with Nannapat Koncharoenkai top-scoring for her team.

Koncharoenkai scored 41 off 48 balls, including five fours, but struggled to find support as wickets continued to tumble around her. India secured the match with a comfortable 94-run win, marking a promising start to their Asian Cup campaign.