Strategic Advice for Mandhana Ahead of Asia Cup Showdown

Sunday’s Women’s Asia Cup 2026 final pits India against Sri Lanka. With Shefali Verma scoring 168 runs at a striking 42 average, she leads the scoreboard, while Smriti Mandhana follows with 154 runs, ranking her second in the tournament.

Former India star Vivek Rajdan has publicly advised the Indian vice‑captain to forgo a reckless, aggressive batting mindset and instead play a measured innings that reflects her natural technique.

India have secured the Asia Cup title seven times – four in the ODI version and three in the T20 format – and are once again viewed as a front‑runner, despite a setback in the 2024 final against Sri Lanka.

Sri Lanka earned their place in the final after limiting Pakistan to 130/5 and then comfortably chasing a target of 33, losing four wickets in only 18.4 overs – a display that Rajdan says should not be underestimated.

Commenting on India’s bowling strengths, Rajdan mentioned Shikha Chakraborty, Shefali Verma, Prema Rawat and Deepti Sharma as pivotal contributors. He warned that Mandhana should not attempt to copy Verma’s attacking style, but rather focus on building a solid partnership during the powerplay.

"If Mandhana can anchor the innings and avoid early dismissals, it will give the middle and lower order the chance to accelerate on the slower Dubai pitch," Rajdan noted. "Her steady presence could be the key to posting a competitive total and ultimately beating Sri Lanka in the final."