New Delhi: Former India spinner R Ashwin feels the Harmanpreet Kaur-led Indian women’s team might not go too far in the ongoing ICC Women’s T20 World Cup
2026. India got off to a winning start I the tournament after beating arch-rivals Pakistan by 64 runs at Edgbaston on Sunday.
The Women in Blue rode on a brilliant 68-run knock from opener Smriti Mandhana and a five-wicket haul from all-rounder Deepti Sharma to outclass Pakistan. However, Ashwin believed India lack depth in their batting line-up and might not make a deep run in the tournament.
“I am not sure India will go very far in this T20 World Cup because there is a lack of power in the lineup. While India were excellent against Pakistan and their spin attack once again proved decisive, the team still lacks the depth that sides like England and Australia possess,” Ashwin said in a video on his YouTube channel.
Ashwin highlighted the lack of power-hitters in the batting line-up, explaining that it can become a concern for the team against stronger opponents as they progress in the tournament. Richa Ghosh and Bharti Fulmali are the only two genuine power-hitters in the side at present.
“India’s combination appears slightly short on power-hitting options, which could become a concern in tougher matches against stronger opponents. Compared to the strong lineups of England and Australia, India’s overall team depth remains a significant worry,” Ashwin added.
Deepti, Mandhana star in India’s win over Pakistan
Deepti Sharma and Smriti Mandhana starred in India’s commanding victory against Pakistan at Edgbaston on Sunday. India were in a spot of bother after losing two quick wickets at the top following their decision to bat first in the high-profile contest. Opener Shafali Verma (6) and Jemimah Rodrigues (6) were dismissed cheaply in quick succession, leaving India reeling at 18/2.
Mandhana then combined with skipper Harmanpreet (36) to steady the ship with a 91-run stand for the third wicket. Richa added the finishing touches to India’s innings with her 34 off 17 balls, propelling the team’s total to 170/6 in 20 overs. In reply, Deepti’s fifer helped India bowl out Pakistan for a paltry 106 runs in 17 overs to secure a comfortable win.
