India Women crush Netherlands by 95 runs in Women’s T20 World Cup 2026 as Smriti Mandhana, Shafali Verma, and Shree Charani shine in Leeds
India Women produced a clinical all-round performance to hammer the Netherlands by 95 runs in the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2026 clash at Headingley, Leeds. Powered by explosive knocks from Smriti Mandhana and Shafali Verma, followed by a dominant display from the spin attack, India secured one of their most convincing wins of the tournament.
Mandhana and Shafali Give India a Flying Start
After being asked to bat first, India got off to the perfect start as openers Smriti Mandhana and Shafali Verma took the attack to the Netherlands bowlers from the very beginning.
The duo stitched together a match-defining partnership, putting India firmly in control. Mandhana played a superb innings of 74, while Shafali smashed 55 to lay the foundation for a massive total.
Although the Netherlands managed to slow things down slightly in the latter stages of the innings, India still posted an imposing 209/5 in their 20 overs. Caroline de Lange was the most successful Dutch bowler, finishing with figures of 2/32.
India’s Spinners Leave Netherlands Helpless
Chasing a daunting target of 210, the Netherlands never found any rhythm with the bat. India’s bowlers struck at regular intervals and ensured the required run rate kept climbing.
The breakthrough came when Sterre Kalis was dismissed by Shafali Verma, whose delivery drifted away before turning back sharply. Soon after, Dutch captain Babette de Leede was stumped following a clever piece of bowling from Nandni Sharma.
From that point, India’s spinners completely dominated the contest.
Shree Charani Steals the Show with Four-Wicket Haul
Left-arm spinner Shree Charani emerged as the star with the ball, producing a brilliant spell that dismantled the Netherlands batting lineup.
Charani used subtle variations and consistent accuracy to trouble the batters throughout her spell. She picked up four wickets and even found herself on a hat-trick at one stage, putting the Netherlands under immense pressure.
Shafali Verma also made a major impact with the ball, claiming three wickets to cap off an outstanding all-round performance.
Netherlands Collapses as India Seals Dominant Win
The Netherlands batting unit struggled against India’s disciplined attack and eventually collapsed under pressure. In a dramatic finish, they lost their last five wickets for just one run.
Apart from a dropped catch that briefly reprieved Babette de Leede, India were outstanding in the field and rarely allowed their opponents any breathing space.
The Netherlands were eventually bowled out for 114 in 17.3 overs, with De Leede top-scoring with 28 runs.
Charani finished with impressive figures of 4/19, while Shafali Verma returned 3/20 and Nandni Sharma chipped in with 2/22.
India vs Netherlands Women’s T20 World Cup 2026: Match Summary
India Women: 209/5 in 20 overs
- Smriti Mandhana: 74
- Shafali Verma: 55
- Caroline de Lange: 2/32
Netherlands Women: 114 all out in 17.3 overs
- Babette de Leede: 28
- Shree Charani: 4/19
- Shafali Verma: 3/20
- Nandni Sharma: 2/22
Result: India Women won by 95 runs.