Smriti Mandhana hits four fours in opening over against Thailand

Smriti Mandhana struck four fours in the opening over as India began their Women's Asia Cup 2026 campaign against Thailand at Dubai International Cricket Stadium. The left-hander and Shafali Verma gave India a rapid start in the Group A fixture. India elected to bat first after winning the toss.

The openers have been India's most consistent batting pair in the tournament format. Their partnership has produced multiple substantial totals in recent Asia Cup editions. Thailand enter the game after their nine-wicket defeat to Sri Lanka in their Asia Cup opener.

The sides have met three times in Women's T20Is, with India holding a 3-0 record. The match marks India's opening fixture in the six-team tournament. India eventually posted 159 for nine before bowling Thailand out for 65.