Shefali Sharma's lightning fifty and Mhandana's power drive set new T20 Asia Cup benchmark

During the climax of the Women's Asia Cup 2026, India opened the innings against Sri Lanka and immediately put pressure on the opposition. Smriti Mhandana and Shefali Sharma combined for a record‑breaking 129‑run partnership for the first wicket, achieved in just 12.5 overs. This partnership eclipses the former record of 128 runs set by Deepthi Sharma and Jemima Rodrigues in 2022, and it also stands as the largest opening stand in any women's T20 final.

Shefali’s innings was a masterclass in aggression: she reached 50 runs in only 24 balls, the quickest half‑century ever recorded in the Women’s Asia Cup, surpassing Mhandana’s 25‑ball fifty from 2022. Her final tally was 68 runs off 39 balls, featuring nine fours and two sixes. Mhandana contributed a solid 59 runs from 39 balls, with five fours and three sixes. The duo’s achievement places them jointly at the top of the list for most 100‑plus opening partnerships, matching the record of the UAE pair Esha Oja and Teerth Satiash.