In a commanding display of cricket, the Indian women’s team secured a seven-wicket victory over Sri Lanka in the second T20 International match held in Visakhapatnam on December 23, 2025. This win not only marked India’s second consecutive victory in the three-match series but also showcased the remarkable performance of young opener Shafali Verma, who played a pivotal role in the team’s success.
Shafali Verma, 21, has emerged as a key player for the Indian women’s cricket team since her debut in 2019. Known for her aggressive batting style, Verma’s innings in Vizag was a testament to her growing prowess on the international stage. She scored an impressive 68 runs off just 42 balls, including eight boundaries and two sixes, setting the tone for India’s chase of 134 runs set by Sri Lanka.
The match began with Sri Lanka winning the toss and opting to bat first. The decision, however, did not yield the desired results as the Indian bowlers, led by the experienced Jhulan Goswami and the young sensation Renuka Singh, restricted the Sri Lankan batting lineup to a modest total. The visitors struggled to build partnerships, with only two players managing to reach double figures. The Sri Lankan innings concluded at 133 runs, with Renuka Singh claiming three wickets for 22 runs in her four overs.
In response, India started their innings cautiously, but Verma quickly shifted gears, taking advantage of the powerplay restrictions. Her aggressive approach not only put pressure on the Sri Lankan bowlers but also provided a solid foundation for the team’s chase. Verma’s innings was complemented by contributions from her teammates, including captain Harmanpreet Kaur, who scored 30 runs, and Smriti Mandhana, who added 25 runs to the total. The Indian team reached the target in just 17.3 overs, finishing at 134 for 3.
This victory is significant for several reasons. Firstly, it gives India a 2-0 lead in the series, putting them in a strong position to clinch the series in the final match. The Indian women’s team has been on an upward trajectory in recent years, with a focus on building a competitive squad ahead of major tournaments, including the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup scheduled for early 2026. The performance against Sri Lanka serves as a confidence booster for the team as they prepare for the challenges ahead.
Secondly, Shafali Verma’s performance underscores her potential as a future star in women’s cricket. Since her entry into the international arena, she has consistently demonstrated her ability to score quickly and effectively, making her a valuable asset to the team. Her innings in Vizag not only highlights her individual talent but also reflects the depth of talent within the Indian women’s cricket setup.
The match also drew attention to the growing popularity of women’s cricket in India. With increasing viewership and support, the women’s game has gained significant traction, paralleling the success of the men’s team. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has been actively promoting women’s cricket, investing in infrastructure, and providing more opportunities for female cricketers at various levels.
Looking ahead, the final match of the series is scheduled to take place on December 26, 2025, in Visakhapatnam. A win in this match would not only secure the series for India but also provide an opportunity for the team to experiment with their lineup and strategies ahead of the World Cup. Conversely, a victory for Sri Lanka could reinvigorate their campaign and set the stage for a competitive future.
In conclusion, India’s victory over Sri Lanka in the second T20I is a significant milestone for the women’s team, showcasing both individual brilliance and collective strength. As the series progresses, the focus will remain on building momentum and preparing for the challenges that lie ahead in the international cricketing landscape. The performance of players like Shafali Verma will be crucial as India aims to establish itself as a dominant force in women’s cricket.
