Dynamic Duo Reunited: Mandhana “Really Excited” to Open with Shafali Again
India’s star opener Smriti Mandhana has enthusiastically welcomed the return of her explosive opening partner Shafali Verma to the national side. Speaking ahead of India’s five-match T20I series against England, Mandhana praised Shafali’s remarkable domestic comeback and expressed genuine excitement about reuniting at the top of the order.
The dynamic duo, who have amassed 2,636 runs together as an opening pair in T20Is, are set to resume their partnership when India face England at Trent Bridge on Saturday.
A Well-Deserved Comeback
Shafali’s return to the Indian team comes after a challenging phase following India’s group-stage exit at last year’s T20 World Cup. Rather than letting the setback define her, the young opener returned to domestic cricket with renewed determination.
“She’s had an amazing year,” Mandhana said warmly. Once the setback had come, she went to domestic cricket, scored bucket-loads of runs and had an amazing WPL. No one had any doubts about her talent.”
The numbers speak for themselves. Shafali dominated the domestic circuit, topping the run charts in the Senior Women’s One-Day Trophy with 527 runs at an average of 75.29. She continued her purple patch in the WPL, finishing as the fourth-highest scorer with 304 runs at a blistering strike rate of 152.76.
Facing England’s Challenge
While Mandhana looks forward to batting alongside Shafali, England’s Lauren Bell can’t wait for the challenge of bowling to them. The Southern Brave teammates will face off as opponents, with Bell particularly eager to test herself against India’s formidable opening combination.
The last time I played India, it’s always been Smriti and Shafali opening the batting,” Bell noted. “They’re both very talented and play differently, so I’m hoping it just brings the best out of us.”
India will field some fresh faces in their bowling attack, with maiden T20I call-ups for seamers Kranti Goud and Sayali Satghare. The absence of experienced bowlers Renuka Singh and Pooja Vastrakar presents an opportunity for the newcomers to shine.
“Young talent, whenever they come in, it’s always very exciting,” Mandhana said. What better place than England to come in as a pacer? I’m sure they’ll do the job for the team.”
As the series begins, cricket fans can look forward to witnessing one of women’s cricket’s most entertaining partnerships back in action. For Mandhana and Shafali, it’s not just about runs – it’s about proving that great partnerships can overcome any setback.
