History in Edgbaston! India-Pakistan break Women’s T20 World Cup record

India’s Smriti Mandhana reaches 50 (AP/PTI) Sunday’s sensational clash between India and Pakistan at Edgbaston not only saw a commanding victory for India but also set a new attendance record in the history of the Women’s T20 World Cup.A crowd of 18,814 filled the stadium for the Group 1 match, making it the largest ever group stage match at the Women’s T20 World Cup. This number surpassed the previous record of 15,935, which was also set during the India-Pakistan clash in Dubai on October 6, 2024.The record attendance highlighted the growing popularity of women’s cricket and the immense appeal of the India-Pakistan rivalry, which continues to attract unprecedented interest from fans around the world.Those in attendance were treated to a dominant all-round performance from India. After recovering from an early wobble to 18/2, India posted an imposing 170/6 thanks to a classy 68 off 44 balls from Smriti Mandhan and a late lightning 34 off just 17 deliveries from Rich Ghosh.Mandhana and skipper Harmanpreet Kaur put together a crucial partnership of 91 runs for the third wicket, laying the foundation for India’s competitiveness. The left-hander hit nine fours and two sixes in a knock full of elegance and timing, while Harmanpreet contributed a valuable 36.Pakistan never seriously threatened the target. Apart from Muneeba Ali’s 41 off 35 balls, the batting unit struggled against the Indian spin attack and were bowled out for just 106 in 17 overs.Deepti Sharma was the star with the ball, taking a career-best 5/10 in four overs. The all-rounder also achieved a historic milestone of becoming the leading wicket-taker in Women’s T20 International history. Left-arm spinner Shree Charani provided excellent support with figures of 3/21.India eventually sealed a comprehensive victory by 64 runs, giving a record Edgbaston crowd something to celebrate. As the Women’s T20 World Cup continues to grow, the attendance milestone served as yet another reminder of the sport’s rapidly expanding global reach and the unmatched pulling power of the India-Pakistan competition.