The blockbuster clash between India and Pakistan at Edgbaston on Sunday not only delivered a commanding Indian victory but also set a new attendance record in the history of the Women’s T20 World Cup.A crowd of 18,814 spectators packed the stadium for the Group 1 encounter, making it the highest-attended group-stage match ever at a Women’s T20 World Cup. The figure surpassed the previous record of 15,935, which was also set during an India-Pakistan clash in Dubai on October 6, 2024.The record turnout highlighted the growing popularity of women’s cricket and the immense appeal of the India-Pakistan rivalry, which continues to draw 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 at 18/2, India posted an imposing 170/6 thanks to a classy 68 off 44 balls from Smriti Mandhana and a late blitz of 34 from just 17 deliveries by Richa Ghosh.Mandhana and captain Harmanpreet Kaur stitched together a crucial 91-run partnership for the third wicket, laying the foundation for India’s competitive total. The left-hander struck 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 India’s spin attack and folded for just 106 in 17 overs.Deepti Sharma was the star with the ball, producing a career-best 5/10 in four overs. The all-rounder also achieved a historic milestone, 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 64-run victory, giving the record-breaking Edgbaston crowd plenty to celebrate. As the Women’s T20 World Cup continues to grow in stature, the attendance milestone served as another reminder of the sport’s rapidly expanding global reach and the unmatched drawing power of an India-Pakistan contest.
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