‘We talk about being ruthless, so very happy’ – Harmanpreet Kaur lauds her players after demolishing Pakistan in Women’s Asia Cup 2026

India produced a dominant bowling display to demolish Pakistan at Dubai International Cricket Stadium on September 5, 2026. Pakistan was bundled out for 55 runs, their lowest total in T20I cricket, as India’s bowlers executed their plans with precision on a fresh wicket. India won by seven wickets, reaching the target in 8.4 overs to secure a commanding victory in the Women’s Asia Cup.

Harmanpreet Kaur, India’s captain, expressed satisfaction with the team’s ruthless approach and execution. Speaking after the match, she highlighted the collective effort of her bowling unit and their ability to adapt to match conditions.

“It was a very important game for us. We talk about being ruthless, so very happy. All the bowlers have been outstanding, stuck to the plans, read the pitch well and executed well,” Harmanpreet said during the post-match presentation ceremony.

Harmanpreet praises bowlers’ execution and ruthlessness

The India captain also reflected on the team’s overall performance and the importance of maintaining high standards. She acknowledged that losing three wickets during the chase was not ideal but emphasised the strength of Pakistan’s bowling attack.

“It is very important to keep the standards high. I know what this team brings to the table. As far as losing three wickets is concerned, it can happen. Pakistan have a good bowling attack,” Harmanpreet said.

Sree Charani and Prema Rawat were the standout performers with the ball, claiming three wickets each. Charani took 3 for 7 runs, while Rawat conceded 9 runs in her three-wicket haul. Deepti Sharma contributed with 2 for 5, as India’s bowlers maintained discipline and stuck to their plans throughout Pakistan’s innings.

The victory also marked a significant personal milestone for Harmanpreet. She became the first cricketer, male or female, to captain 150 Twenty20 Internationals on September 5, 2026. She had recorded 86 wins as captain before reaching this landmark achievement.

“I am grateful. I never thought that I will come this far. Keep supporting. Hope I keep continuing the good work,” Harmanpreet said.

Pakistan captain reflects on collapse

Pakistan captain Fatima Sana, who claimed three wickets in the match, acknowledged the collapse that led to her team’s low total. She explained that Pakistan had hoped to post a larger score given their bowling strength.

“We had a collapse. It was a fresh wicket, and we wanted to put maximum total as we had a good bowling side,” Fatima said.

Also Read: ‘Still believe Pakistan is the best side in this Women’s Asia Cup’ – Coach Wahab Riaz remains defiant despite humiliating loss vs India

India had already secured a semi-final berth following victories over Thailand and Hong Kong, China, before facing Pakistan. The team will play the first semi-final at Dubai International Cricket Stadium on September 10.