Indian Smriti Mandhana turns 50 (AP/PTI)
The mega showdown between India and Pakistan at Edgbaston on Sunday not only delivered a resounding Indian victory but also set a new attendance record in the history of the Women’s T20 World Cup.A crowd of 18,814 packed the stadium for the Group A encounter, making it the most attended group stage match ever in a Women’s T20 World Cup. This surpassed the previous record of 15,935, which was also recorded during the India-Pakistan standoff in Dubai on October 6, 2024.
This record turnout has highlighted the growing popularity of women’s cricket and the huge appeal of the India-Pakistan rivalry, which continues to attract unprecedented interest from fans around the world.Those in attendance enjoyed a dominating all-round performance from India. After recovering from an early wobble on 2/18, India posted 170/6 thanks to a stylish 68 off 44 balls from Smriti Mandhana and a late attack of 34 off just 17 deliveries by Richa Ghosh.Mandhana and skipper Harmanpreet Kaur put together a crucial 91-run partnership for the third wicket, laying the foundation for India’s competitive total. The left-hander hit nine fours and two sixes in a knock full of elegance and timing, while Harmanpreet contributed a valuable 36.
Pakistan did not seriously threaten the target. Apart from Muniba Ali’s 41 off 35 balls, the batting unit struggled against the Indian spin attack and crumbled for just 106 in 17 overs.Deepti Sharma was the star with the ball, hitting a career-best 5/10 in his four overs. The all-rounder also achieved a historic feat, becoming the leading wicket-taker in the history of women’s T20 internationals. Left-arm spinner Shree Charani provided excellent support with figures of 3/21.India eventually secured a comprehensive 64-run victory, giving the record-breaking Edgbaston crowd plenty to celebrate. As the stature of the Women’s T20 World Cup continues to grow, this milestone for attendance was another reminder of the sport’s rapid global expansion and the unparalleled pulling power of the India-Pakistan competition.