18 June,2026 05:43 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondent
Shefali Verma and Smriti Mandhana (Pic: BCCI)
Indian opener Shafali Verma has revealed that her improved mental discipline has been central to overcoming her recent batting slump. She also praised Smriti Mandhana for helping her stay calm at the crease during India's winning start to the T20 World Cup.
Chasing their first T20 World Cup crown, India currently leads Group A with four points and a net run rate of 3.975. This follows a 64-run victory over rivals Pakistan and a massive 95-run win against the Netherlands.
During Wednesday's clash against the Netherlands, Shafali ended her poor run of form with a blistering 38-ball 55, and formed a 115-run partnership with vice-captain Smriti Mandhana for the opening wicket.
Before the World Cup, Shefali Verma endured a disappointing tour of England as runs dried up from her bat. Talking about the series, Verma said that talking to her opening partner helped her regain her form.
"We could not get the partnerships against England (in bilateral series) earlier. But we were talking a lot, helping each other on how we can build more partnerships. We played very well in the last match, and after that, I worked a lot on the nets. I tried to play along the ground, tried to control myself mentally, and we had a very good partnership." Shefali Verma said.
"I do not have to say much, she is very mature. But she keeps telling me, because I feel like hitting a six every time, she is the one who always tells me to stay calm, that you will get the ball and you have to play along the ground," Shafali added.
Indian star spinner Shreyanka Patil was stretchered off after an ankle injury during the match against Netherlands. Patil, who missed around 14 months due to previous injuries, suffered a suspected broken ankle while chasing a ball during her first over against the Netherlands.
Regarding Shreyanka, Shafali shared that the team hoped that they could have their star spinner back sooner rather than later.
"She went for a scan, and BCCI's medical team is taking care of her," Shefali said.
(With PTI inputs)
