India’s dynamic opener Shafali Verma has surged back into the top 10 of the ICC Women’s T20I Batting Rankings, reclaiming her place among the elite after a standout performance against England. With 655 rating points, she now holds the ninth spot, marking a significant comeback for the young star.
Shafali’s return to form comes on the back of a high-voltage five-match T20I series against England, where she was India’s second-highest run-scorer. Across the series, she smashed 176 runs at a blistering strike rate of 158.56, with her most memorable knock being a stunning 75 off 41 balls in the fourth T20I. Although India lost that nail-biting match, Shafali’s explosive innings stood out as one of the series’ defining moments.
At just 21 years old, Shafali has already proven herself as one of India’s most dangerous batters in the shortest format. Her re-entry into the top 10 signals not just a personal achievement, but also a promising sign for India as they prepare for future ICC tournaments.
Meanwhile, teammate Smriti Mandhana has held firm at third position in the rankings, continuing her consistent run at the top of the T20I game. Together, Mandhana and Shafali have once again established themselves as one of the most formidable opening pairs in women’s cricket.
India’s success in the series also reflected in the rankings for bowling and all-rounders. Arundhati Reddy, who delivered a spirited performance with the ball, has climbed 26 places to break into the top 80 all-rounders, and also jumped into the top 40 bowlers globally. Her key breakthroughs in the middle overs were crucial in tilting momentum India’s way in tight matches.
On the England side, several players made waves in the rankings update. Off-spinner Charlie Dean, who was instrumental in England’s win in the final T20I with figures of 3 for 23, leapt into the top six of the T20I bowling rankings. Her controlled spells throughout the series earned her praise for keeping India’s batters in check.
Fellow spinner Sophie Ecclestone, already one of the most reliable bowlers in world cricket, rose to fourth, inching closer to the number one spot. Fast bowlers like Linsey Smith, Issy Wong, and Emily Arlott also moved up in the rankings, reflecting the depth in England’s bowling attack.
On the batting front, England’s Sophia Dunkley gained seven spots to reach 19th after scoring a total of 151 runs, while veteran batter Tammy Beaumont impressed with her adaptability, leaping 19 places to climb to 45th.
This rankings update underscores the fierce competition and rising standards in women’s T20I cricket. For India, Shafali’s comeback into the top 10 is a welcome boost ahead of key international fixtures, especially with the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2026 on the horizon.
Cricket experts believe that Shafali’s renewed focus, combined with her natural aggression, could make her one of the most feared batters on the global stage once again. After slipping down the ranks over the past year due to inconsistent form, her resurgence is a testament to her work ethic and maturity as a young athlete.
“It’s not just about big shots anymore,” said a former Indian women’s coach. “Shafali has begun to understand the game situation better. She’s pacing her innings, picking bowlers, and taking responsibility. This version of her is dangerous in the best way possible.”
India’s 3-2 series victory over England not only delivered thrilling matches but also offered a glimpse into the future of women’s cricket—where bold hitters like Shafali, smart bowlers like Reddy, and experienced heads like Mandhana come together to challenge the best in the world.
With momentum on their side and key players climbing the ICC charts, Team India’s women’s squad looks well-poised to make a strong run in the upcoming global tournaments. And at the top of that charge will be a familiar face—Shafali Verma, smiling, swinging, and scoring her way back to the top.
