India opened their Women’s T20 Asia Cup campaign with a 94-run victory over Thailand on Sunday, despite a late batting collapse after Shafali Verma’s explosive half-century.
Third-ranked India raced to 159-9 after being 113-1, with opener Shafali anchoring the innings with a blistering 64 off 36 balls, including eight fours and three sixes.
Thailand fought back through Suleeporn Laomi, who took 3-26, while Sunida Chaturongrattana claimed 2-31 and Chanida Sutthiruang 1-14.
Shafali fell to a return catch off Laomi during the collapse as India lost eight wickets for 46 runs.
“I made a mistake that time. The ball had a little bit of grip,” Shafali said. “I might have played it grounded, but that’s just how today was.”
India’s middle order struggled under the Dubai lights in the absence of experienced batter Jemimah Rodrigues.
“We all knew that this would be a turning track. We’ll go back and see where we’re going wrong as a batting unit and where we can improve,” Shafali said.
India’s bowlers then took control, with Deepti Sharma and Nandni Sharma claiming three wickets apiece as Thailand were bowled out for 65.
Having played the 2024 Women’s T20 World Cup in the UAE, India were familiar with the conditions.
“Two years back we came here for the World Cup, so we knew the conditions,” Shafali said.
“The ball comes nicely when it’s new. When it gets old, there’s a bit of hold. I’m aware of the conditions and play accordingly.”
Despite Thailand’s heavy defeat, Shafali praised their progress and called for more international opportunities.
“I’m so happy that women’s cricket is growing,” she said. “If they get more cricket, they’ll grow more. I’ll just say to them to keep working hard.”
Thailand next face Pakistan on September 1, while India meet Hong Kong, China on September 3.