Indian spinners crush Pakistan chase in Birmingham tournament opener
Deepti Sharma delivered a masterclass in spin bowling to secure a resounding 64-run victory for India over Pakistan in their opening match of the tournament. The skilled off-spinner finished with spectacular figures of 5 for 10, completely dismantling the opposition batting order. Chasing a target of 171, the Pakistani side collapsed to 106 all out within 17 overs as India's slow bowlers dictated the tempo of the game.
This high-stakes encounter added another thrilling chapter to cricket's most celebrated rivalry, which routinely draws millions of passionate viewers across both nations and the global diaspora.
Earlier in the day, Indian skipper Harmanpreet Kaur elected to bat first. The team overcame early hiccups through a fine half-century from Smriti Mandhana. Mandhana struck a fluent 68 off 44 deliveries, executing nine boundaries and two sixes. She anchored a vital 91-run partnership with her captain after India found themselves in a spot of bother at 20 for 2.
Though Pakistan picked up quick wickets to stall the scoring in the middle overs, a late cameo from wicketkeeper Richa Ghosh turned the momentum back. Ghosh smashed a quickfire 34 off just 17 balls, pushing the final score to a competitive 170 for 6.
Pakistan started their response with intent, targeting the pacers during the initial powerplay overs. However, the introduction of spin changed the complexion of the contest. Sharma earned the first breakthrough by deceiving Gull Feroza, who mistimed a reverse sweep. Shortly after, the spinner executed a brilliant direct hit to run out Muneeba Ali for 35, breaking the back of the chase.
The lower middle order offered little resistance, sliding quickly from 75 for 4 to 91 for 7. Sharma returned to bowl the final over of the match, claiming three quick wickets to wrap up the tail and seal maximum points for her side. Along with support from Shafali Verma and Shree Charani, the spin unit accounted for nine Pakistani scalps.
With Inputs from Agency Threads
