Pratika Rawal Shines on T20I Debut, Deepti Sharma Breaks Records as India Dominate Asia Cup Opener

India's Women's Asia Cup 2026 campaign kicked off with a bang in Dubai as promising batter Pratika Rawal made her Twenty20 International (T20I) debut, while star all-rounder Deepti Sharma marked her 150th T20I appearance by becoming the format's leading wicket-taker globally. The Women in Blue asserted their dominance over Thailand, securing a resounding 94-run victory in their Group A opener, setting an impressive tone for the tournament. Rawal, stepping in for the injured Jemimah Rodrigues, wasted no time making an impact, scoring a brisk 22 runs off just 18 balls, showcasing her potential in the shortest format, following an already stellar One Day International (ODI) career. Meanwhile, Deepti Sharma, a linchpin of the Indian side, not only celebrated a major personal milestone but also delivered a sensational bowling performance, claiming three wickets without conceding a single run to etch her name in cricket history. This performance comes as India looks to bounce back from a disappointing T20 World Cup exit earlier this year, aiming to regain their continental supremacy. As India progresses in the Women's Asia Cup, eyes will be on Rawal to convert her strong start into consistent performances, further solidifying her place in the squad. Deepti Sharma record-breaking form signals a formidable challenge for opposing teams, including arch-rivals Pakistan, whom India is set to face in the group stage. The team's strong opening statement and the individual brilliance of its players underscore their ambition to claim a record-extending eighth Asia Cup title in the UAE.