‘We emphasise ruthlessness, and today we showed it’ – Harmanpreet Kaur praises team after crushing Pakistan in Women’s Asia Cup 2026

India delivered a commanding bowling performance to dismantle Pakistan at Dubai International Cricket Stadium on September 5, 2026. Pakistan were bowled out for just 55 runs—their lowest total in T20I cricket—as India’s bowlers executed their strategies with precision on a fresh surface. India chased down the target in 8.4 overs, losing only three wickets, to seal a comprehensive seven-wicket victory in the Women’s Asia Cup.

Harmanpreet Kaur, captain of India, voiced her contentment with the team’s ruthless execution and overall performance. Addressing the media after the match, she commended the collective effort of her bowling unit and their capacity to adjust to the pitch 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 stated during the post-match presentation ceremony.

Harmanpreet applauds bowlers’ discipline and aggressive mindset

The Indian captain also shared her thoughts on the team’s broader performance and the significance of upholding high standards. While she admitted that losing three wickets during the chase was not ideal, she acknowledged the quality of Pakistan’s bowling unit.

“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 remarked.

Sree Charani and Prema Rawat emerged as the standout bowlers, each claiming three wickets. Charani finished with figures of 3 for 7, while Rawat conceded only 9 runs in her three-wicket spell. Deepti Sharma chipped in with 2 for 5, as India’s bowlers maintained control and adhered to their game plans throughout Pakistan’s innings.

The win also marked a remarkable personal achievement for Harmanpreet. She became the first cricketer—male or female—to captain 150 Twenty20 Internationals on September 5, 2026, having previously recorded 86 wins as captain before reaching this historic milestone.

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

Pakistan captain addresses batting collapse

Pakistan captain Fatima Sana, who picked up three wickets in the match, conceded that the batting collapse was the primary reason for her team’s underwhelming total. She noted that Pakistan had aimed to post a competitive score, considering their bowling depth.

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

India had already booked their place in the semi-finals with wins over Thailand and Hong Kong, China, prior to the encounter with Pakistan. The side will now feature in the first semi-final at Dubai International Cricket Stadium on September 10.

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