Shafali Verma’s Blazing 64, Bowlers’ Rout Power India To 94-Run Win Over Thailand

India began their Women’s T20 Asia Cup campaign in commanding fashion, overpowering Thailand by 94 runs in their Group A opener in Dubai on Sunday.

After posting 159 for nine in 20 overs, India’s bowlers turned the contest into a one-sided affair, dismissing Thailand for just 65 in 16.1 overs.

The foundation for India’s imposing total was laid by Shafali Verma, who produced an explosive 36-ball 64. The opener smashed eight fours and three sixes, taking the attack to Thailand during a blistering innings.

India appeared firmly in control at 108 for two, but their innings suddenly lost momentum. A dramatic collapse saw them tumble to 137 for nine before the lower order helped push the total to 159.

Thailand’s bowlers had some success during India’s late collapse, with Suleeporn Laomi claiming three wickets for 26 runs and Sunida Chaturongrattana taking two for 31.

However, Thailand's chase never gathered momentum. Nannapat Koncharoenkai offered some resistance with a 41-run knock, but wickets fell regularly at the other end.

India’s bowlers combined brilliantly to wrap up the innings inside 17 overs. Nandani Sharma led the pace attack with three wickets for 18 runs, while Shree Charani claimed two for 10.

Deepti Sharma was particularly devastating, finishing with remarkable figures of three wickets without conceding a run. Her spell, along with Charani’s economical bowling, ensured Thailand had no chance of mounting a recovery.

The comprehensive victory gives India a strong start in Group A and underlines the depth of their bowling attack as the tournament progresses.