acelinestore1 The India Women vs Zimbabwe Women series marks a new chapter in women’s international cricket. India are hosting Zimbabwe for their first bilateral international series, which includes three T20Is and three ODIs. As a result, fans have plenty to look forward to, from exciting T20 action to the longer ODI format.
The first T20I is taking place in Raipur on October 16, 2026. Meanwhile, both teams are looking to build momentum and test their players ahead of the remaining matches. Here’s everything you need to know about the match, including the scorecard, playing XI, key players, schedule, and live streaming details.
India Women vs Zimbabwe Women Match Details
The opening T20I brings two teams together for a historic contest. India will aim to make the most of their home advantage, while Zimbabwe will look to challenge the hosts with a competitive performance.
- Match: India Women vs Zimbabwe Women, 1st T20I
- Date: October 16, 2026
- Venue: Raipur, India
- India captain: Smriti Mandhana
- Zimbabwe captain: Josephine Nkomo
- Format: Women’s T20 International
Additionally, the series gives both teams an opportunity to assess their combinations before the next matches.
India Women vs Zimbabwe Women Match Scorecard
Zimbabwe batted first after India won the toss and elected to field. The visitors finished their innings on 114/5 in 20 overs, setting India a target of 115 runs.
Kelis Ndhlovu scored 42 runs, while Sharne Mayers remained unbeaten on 43. Together, their contributions helped Zimbabwe build a competitive total despite losing wickets along the way.
Zimbabwe Women Innings
| Batter | Runs |
|---|---|
| Kelis Ndhlovu | 42 |
| Sharne Mayers | 43* |
| Total | 114/5 in 20 overs |
Note: The table highlights the main batting contributions rather than the complete scorecard.
On the bowling side, Nandani Sharma claimed two wickets for India. Meanwhile, Sree Charani, Arundhati Reddy, and Kranti Gaud picked up one wicket each.
India then began their chase of 115 runs. However, the early wickets put pressure on the home team, making the chase more challenging. Check the latest official scorecard for the final result and complete batting figures before publishing a final match report.
India Women Playing XI
India entered the first T20I with a combination of experienced internationals and emerging players. Notably, Niki Prasad made her international debut in the match.
The confirmed India Women playing XI was:
- Smriti Mandhana (Captain)
- Shafali Verma
- Anushka Sharma
- Harmanpreet Kaur
- Niki Prasad
- Richa Ghosh (Wicketkeeper)
- Deepti Sharma
- Arundhati Reddy
- Sree Charani
- Nandani Sharma
- Kranti Gaud
With experienced players in the lineup, India had several options in both batting and bowling. In addition, the inclusion of Niki Prasad gave the team a chance to assess a new player at the international level.
Zimbabwe Women Playing XI
Zimbabwe also selected a mix of established players and young talent for the opening match. Captain Josephine Nkomo led the side, while the batting lineup aimed to provide a strong start.
The confirmed Zimbabwe Women’s Playing XI was:
- Kelis Ndhlovu
- Beloved Biza
- Chipo Mugeri-Tiripano
- Sharne Mayers
- Michelle Mavunga
- Nyasha Gwanzura
- Francisca Chipare
- Modester Mupachikwa (Wicketkeeper)
- Josephine Nkomo (Captain)
- Olinder Chare
- Tendai Makusha
Zimbabwe needed a disciplined performance against India’s experienced lineup. Therefore, contributions from both the top order and the bowling attack were important.
Key Players to Watch
Several players could influence the outcome of the India Women vs Zimbabwe Women series. While India’s international experience gives them valuable options, Zimbabwe also has players capable of making a difference.
Smriti Mandhana
Smriti Mandhana leads India in the series and remains a key figure at the top of the batting order. Her ability to score quickly while maintaining control can help India establish a strong foundation.
Harmanpreet Kaur
Harmanpreet Kaur brings valuable international experience to India’s middle order. Moreover, her ability to handle pressure makes her an important player during difficult phases of a match.
Deepti Sharma
Deepti Sharma offers India an all-round option. In addition to her bowling, she can contribute useful runs when the team needs stability or a late push.
Niki Prasad
Niki Prasad’s international debut is one of the notable talking points from the opening T20I. Although a debut can bring extra pressure, it also gives a young player an opportunity to gain experience at the highest level.
Kelis Ndhlovu
Kelis Ndhlovu made a valuable contribution with the bat, scoring 42 runs in Zimbabwe’s innings. Consequently, her performance helped the visitors build a defendable total.
Sharne Mayers
Sharne Mayers finished Zimbabwe’s innings unbeaten on 43. Her ability to keep scoring towards the end helped Zimbabwe reach 114/5, giving the bowling attack a target to defend.
India Women vs Zimbabwe Women Series Schedule 2026
The bilateral series includes three T20Is followed by three ODIs. The T20 matches are scheduled in Raipur, while the ODI leg will take place in Vadodara.
| Match | Date | Venue |
|---|---|---|
| 1st T20I | October 16, 2026 | Raipur |
| 2nd T20I | October 18, 2026 | Raipur |
| 3rd T20I | October 20, 2026 | Raipur |
| 1st ODI | October 23, 2026 | Vadodara |
| 2nd ODI | October 25, 2026 | Vadodara |
| 3rd ODI | October 28, 2026 | Vadodara |
The T20Is are scheduled to begin at 7:00 PM IST, while the ODIs are scheduled to start at 2:00 PM IST. However, readers should check official updates for any changes to match timings.
The ODI series is also part of the ICC Women’s Championship 2025–29. Therefore, those matches will have additional significance for the teams’ campaign in the competition.
Where to Watch India Women vs Zimbabwe Women Live
Fans in India can follow the series through the announced broadcast and streaming platforms.
- TV broadcast: Star Sports Network
- Online streaming: JioHotstar
Availability may depend on the match and current broadcast arrangements. For that reason, viewers should check the platforms’ latest listings before the game.
In addition to watching the match, fans can follow live score updates, wickets, batting performances, and the final scorecard through cricket coverage websites.
Why Is the India Women vs Zimbabwe Women Series Important?
This series is significant because it represents the first bilateral international meeting between India and Zimbabwe in women’s cricket. Consequently, it offers both teams a valuable opportunity to develop their combinations and gain experience against a new opponent.
For India, the matches provide a chance to test emerging players alongside established internationals. Meanwhile, Zimbabwe can use the series to challenge themselves against a strong opponent and build confidence.
The three T20Is will also help both teams prepare for the ODI leg. Furthermore, the ODIs will be important for India’s campaign in the ICC Women’s Championship.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. When is the India Women vs Zimbabwe Women 1st T20I?
The first T20I is scheduled for October 16, 2026, in Raipur, India.
2. Who is the captain of the Indian women?
Smriti Mandhana is leading India Women in the series.
3. Who is the captain of the Zimbabwe women?
Josephine Nkomo is captaining the Zimbabwe Women.
4. What was Zimbabwe Women’s score in the first T20I?
Zimbabwe scored 114/5 in 20 overs. Kelis Ndhlovu made 42 runs, while Sharne Mayers scored an unbeaten 43.
5. Where can I watch India Women vs Zimbabwe Women live in India?
The announced viewing options are Star Sports Network on television and JioHotstar for online streaming. Check current listings for confirmation.
6. How many matches are included in the series?
The series includes three T20Is and three ODIs, for a total of six matches.
Conclusion
The India Women vs Zimbabwe Women series offers an exciting opportunity to follow a new rivalry in women’s international cricket. India will look to make the most of their experience and home advantage, while Zimbabwe will aim to produce strong performances across both formats.
Meanwhile, the three T20Is will set the tone for the ODI matches later in the month. Keep checking the latest scorecard, playing XI, and match updates for confirmed results and performances throughout the series.
