As the sun shines bright over Trent Bridge on 28th June 2025, history will be scripted. The Indian women’s cricket team, under the dynamic leadership of Harmanpreet Kaur, will step onto the lush greens to face England in the opening T20I of a highly anticipated five-match series.
But this is not just any contest; this match marks India’s 200th Women’s T20 International, a remarkable journey that ranks them among the elite, alongside England and Australia as only the third team to reach this milestone.
From Derby to Nottingham: A Journey Through Time
India’s tryst with T20I cricket began nearly two decades ago on August 5, 2006, fittingly against England at the County Ground in Derby. Then led by Mithali Raj, the Indian team tasted victory in their maiden outing, thanks largely to Rumeli Dhar’s composed, match-winning 66*. That win set the tone for what would become a proud legacy in the shortest format.
Over the course of their T20I journey, the Indian women’s cricket team has played 199 matches as of June 27, 2025. Out of these, they have emerged victorious in 108 encounters, while facing defeat in 84 matches. The team has also seen six games washed out with no result, and one memorable match ending in a tie. This consistent performance has given India a solid win percentage of 54, reflecting their competitive presence and steady growth in the international T20 arena.
Their journey has been a rollercoaster of triumphs and setbacks, pulsating finishes, and a growing fandom for women’s cricket in India. The tied game against Australia in December 2022, where India emerged victorious in a dramatic Super Over contest, remains etched in memory as a testament to their nerves of steel.
Highs and Lows
India’s highest-ever T20I total came in Navi Mumbai against the West Indies in December 2024. On that day, Smriti Mandhana led from the front with a sparkling 77, ably supported by Richa Ghosh’s blitz (54 off 21). The team posted a colossal 217/4 before restricting the Windies to 157/9. Richa Ghosh’s counter-attacking brilliance earned her Player of the Match, and India clinched the series. It also happens to be India’s previous appearance in the T20I format so far at the international level.
But there have been tough days, too. The lowest point came in June 2011 against a ruthless Australian side at Billericay. The Indian lineup, helmed by Jhulan Goswami, was bundled out for a mere 62, exposed by Sarah Coyte’s four-wicket haul. Yet, every such challenge has only made the team stronger and more resilient.
All Eyes on Trent Bridge: The 200th T20I Beckons
As the team prepares for this landmark fixture, it is not just a tussle for series supremacy against Nat Sciver-Brunt’s formidable England; it’s a moment for reflection and celebration. With the squad boasting match-winners like Smriti Mandhana, Jemimah Rodrigues, Richa Ghosh, and young sensations like Amanjot Kaur, Sayali Satghare, expectations are justifiably high.
The Road Ahead
This bilateral series, five T20Is and three ODIs, presents India with the perfect stage to test their mettle ahead of major ICC events. For Harmanpreet Kaur and her unit, the focus will be on blending experience with youth, executing plans under pressure, and keeping the momentum from their recent West Indies triumph alive. England and Australia have set the benchmark. Now, as India joins them in the 200-club, their ambition will be not just to participate, but to dominate and inspire a new generation back home.
A Proud Legacy and a Bright Future
From their first steps at Derby to the grand stage of Trent Bridge, India’s women have shattered stereotypes and rewritten history. Their 200th T20I is a celebration not just for the team or the board, but for every young girl who dreams of donning the blue.
As the first ball is bowled at 7 PM IST on June 28, the eyes of an inspired nation and the cricketing world will be on Harmanpreet’s warriors. Milestones come and go, but the legacy of a team that dared to dream big and play bold will echo for generations. Here’s to many more matches, memories, and milestones for the Indian women’s cricket team.
