Deepti Sharma takes three wickets without conceding a run as India thrash Thailand by 94 runs
Deepti Sharma's record spell powered India to a 94-run victory over Thailand in their Asia Cup opener.
Deepti Sharma claimed three wickets without conceding a run in 1.1 overs to help India defeat Thailand by 94 runs in their Women's Asia Cup opener at Dubai International Cricket Stadium on Sunday. Shafali Verma scored 64 runs off 36 balls to lead India's batting effort.
India reached 159 for nine after losing eight wickets for 46 runs in the middle order. Thailand were dismissed for 65 in 16.1 overs, with Nannapat Koncharoenkai top-scoring with 41 runs off 48 balls. Nandani Sharma also took three wickets for India.
Deepti Sharma reached her 150th T20I cap during the match. Pratika Rawal made her T20I debut and scored 22 runs off 18 balls. Smriti Mandhana surpassed Suzie Bates to become the second-highest run-scorer in women's international cricket history with 10,756 runs.
CricHubb Take
India's middle-order collapse after a strong opening partnership reveals a vulnerability that stronger Asian sides may target in later matches. The 46-run loss of eight wickets suggests the team needs greater stability in the middle overs despite the comprehensive victory.