Shafali Verma stars as India defeat Thailand by 94 runs in Women's Asia Cup opener

Shafali Verma smashed 64 off 36 balls as India defeated Thailand by 94 runs in their Women's Asia Cup 2026 opener in Dubai. Deepti Sharma and Nandini Sharma picked up three wickets each as India bowled Thailand out for 65.

India posted 159 for nine after slumping from 90 for one to 127 for six. Thailand's spinners, led by Suleeporn Laomi's three-wicket haul, triggered the collapse on a turning pitch.

Harmanpreet Kaur said the team cannot take any opponent lightly after the win. The result gives India a strong start to their campaign in the seven-team tournament.