The ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2026 delivers one of the most anticipated fixtures of the tournament as India Women take on Pakistan Women in Match 6 of Group 1 at Edgbaston, Birmingham. Whenever these two rivals meet on the cricket field, form and rankings often take a backseat, with pressure, passion, and pride taking center stage. With both teams beginning their World Cup campaign, a winning start could provide crucial momentum in a highly competitive group.
India Women enter the contest with a balanced squad packed with international experience and match-winners across departments. Led by Harmanpreet Kaur, India boasts a formidable batting lineup featuring Smriti Mandhana, Shafali Verma, Jemimah Rodrigues, and Richa Ghosh. Their bowling attack, spearheaded by Renuka Singh, N Sree Charani, and Shreyanka Patil, provides the perfect blend of pace and spin. Having dominated recent encounters against Pakistan, India will be confident of extending their superiority in this high-profile clash.
Pakistan Women, captained by Fatima Sana, will be eager to challenge the odds and make a statement on the global stage. The team possesses a strong spin attack led by Sadia Iqbal, Nashra Sandhu, and Tuba Hassan, while experienced campaigners such as Muneeba Ali, Aliya Riaz, and Diana Baig provide stability. Pakistan’s success could depend on their ability to handle India’s aggressive top order and capitalize on key moments under pressure. Given the intensity of this rivalry, Pakistan will believe they have every chance of producing a memorable performance.
Squads:
India Women’s Cricket Team
Harmanpreet Kaur (C), Smriti Mandhana (VC), Yastika Bhatia (WK), Richa Ghosh (WK), Shafali Verma, Jemimah Rodrigues, Deepti Sharma, Shreyanka Patil, Radha Yadav, Renuka Singh, Arundhati Reddy, Bharti Fulmali, Kranti Goud, Nandini Sharma, Shree Charani.
Pakistan Women’s Cricket Team
Fatima Sana (C), Aliya Riaz, Ayesha Zafar, Diana Baig, Eyman Fatima, Gull Feroza, Iram Javed, Muneeba Ali, Nashra Sandhu, Natalia Pervaiz, Rameen Shamim, Sadia Iqbal, Saira Jabeen, Tasmia Rubab, Tuba Hassan
Players to watch out:
Harmanpreet Kaur
India captain Harmanpreet Kaur remains one of the most influential cricketers in women’s T20 cricket. A proven match-winner, she has amassed over 4,075 T20I runs, scoring one century and 17 half-centuries while consistently delivering in pressure situations. Harmanpreet’s ability to accelerate against both pace and spin, combined with her leadership qualities, makes her a crucial figure in India’s World Cup campaign. Her recent form and vast experience in major tournaments could play a decisive role against Pakistan.
Jemimah Rodrigues
Jemimah Rodrigues has developed into one of India’s most reliable middle-order batters. Known for her composure and ability to rotate strike, she has scored 2,732 T20I runs with an average of 30.02 and the highest score of 76. She frequently anchors India’s innings. Her excellent record against Pakistan and ability to build partnerships make her a player to watch in this contest.
Fatima Sana
Pakistan skipper Fatima Sana has emerged as one of the finest all-rounders in world cricket. Her ability to contribute with both bat and ball gives Pakistan tremendous flexibility. Fatima Sana has picked up 48 wickets with best bowling figures of 4/26. She has also scored 715 runs with an average of 34.04 and a strike-rate of 139.64. Fatima’s knack for breaking partnerships and scoring valuable runs in crucial situations makes her Pakistan’s biggest match-winner heading into this encounter. She will be expected to lead from the front in one of the biggest games of the tournament.
Muneeba Ali
Muneeba Ali remains the backbone of Pakistan’s batting lineup. The experienced opener has consistently provided stability at the top and can convert starts into substantial scores. She has experience of playing 89 T20I matches and has scored 1602 runs, including two centuries and three half-centuries. Her positive approach during the powerplay could be key if Pakistan hopes to challenge India’s strong bowling attack. A good start from Muneeba would significantly boost Pakistan’s chances of posting a competitive total.
Pitch:
Edgbaston traditionally offers a balanced wicket that provides opportunities for both batters and bowlers. The new ball generally comes nicely onto the bat, allowing stroke-makers to play freely during the powerplay. As the innings progresses, spinners often come into the game, particularly during the middle overs where controlling the run rate becomes crucial.
Weather:
The weather forecast for Birmingham looks encouraging, with pleasant temperatures and only a minimal chance of rain interruptions. Conditions are expected to remain favourable throughout the match, offering players and spectators the prospect of a full and uninterrupted contest.
Fantasy Playing XI:
Richa Ghosh, Muneeba Ali, Smriti Mandhana, Shafali Verma, Jemimah Rodrigues, Harmanpreet Kaur, Deepti Sharma, Fatima Sana, Shreyanka Patil, Sadia Iqbal, Renuka Singh
Match Details:
Date – June 14, 2026
Time – 7:00 PM IST
Venue – Edgbaston, Birmingham, England
Broadcast – Star Sports Network, Jio Hotstar
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