Shafali Verma Sets Record for Most 50-Plus Scores in a Calendar Year
· Sports · Times of India
Indian opener Shafali Verma set a new record for the most 50-plus scores by a batter in a single calendar year in women's T20 internationals, reaching her ninth such innings in 2026. She achieved the milestone during India's nine-wicket victory over Zimbabwe in the second T20I, which secured an unassailable 2-0 lead in the three-match series. Verma scored 55 runs off 25 balls, while captain Smriti Mandhana remained unbeaten on 47 to help chase down the target of 103 in just 8.5 overs. The pair also extended their record for the most 50-plus partnerships in a calendar year, now totaling nine. This match marked the beginning of Mandhana's tenure as a full-time captain.
Why it matters
The victory secures a series win for India and highlights the dominant form of the opening pair, which is critical for India's momentum in international T20 cricket.
Read the original report — Times of India
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