Published 2 hours ago • loading... • Updated 52 minutes ago
Smriti Mandhana and Shafali Verma Break Several Records as Onslaught Blows Sri Lanka Away in Asia Cup
Shafali Verma’s 24-ball fifty gave her a third 50-plus score in the tournament and matched Chamari Athapaththu’s single-edition record, officials said.
On Sunday, September 13, 2026, Shafali Verma smashed a 24-ball fifty at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, setting the fastest half-century record in Women's T20 Asia Cup history during the final between India Women and Sri Lanka Women.
The 22-year-old Shafali and Vice-captain Smriti Mandhana dominated the Sri Lanka bowlers, adding 129 runs in 12.5 overs to shut the Lankans out of the match early with power and grace.
Mandhana reached her 36th T20I fifty, while India progressed to 98 at the halfway mark without losing a wicket, eventually finishing at 183 for five against the Lankan bowling attack.
India slowed in the final five overs, managing only 43 runs as the big-hitting Richa Ghosh was dismissed, allowing the Lankan bowlers to tighten their lines in the closing stages.
With her third 50-plus score in this edition, Shafali matched Chamari Athapaththu's 2024 record, cementing her place among the fastest half-centuries in T20 Asia Cup history.
At the start of the final match against Sri Lanka, the explosive pair of Smriti Mandhana and Shafali Verma took full advantage of the powerplay. Both players rained fours and sixes to give the team a strong start.