Why Smriti Mandhana is Not Opening in IND-W vs JPN-W Asian Games 2026?

India's vice-captain Smriti Mandhana did not come out to open the batting during the 4th quarter-final; against Japan Women in the ongoing Asian Games. The decision surprised the fans as Mandhana has been India's designated opener in the format.

After bundling out Japan for just 57 runs, the fans expected India to chase down the target with ease. Shafali Verma came to open the batting, however, Mandhana wasn't there at the other end during the JPN-W vs IND-W match.

Why Smriti Mandhana is Not Opening Today?

There is no clear reason why Mandhana didn't come out to open the batting alongside Shafali Verma in this game. It seemed like the Indian team management gave the chances to other players for some crucial match practice.

Mandhana was expected to come down the order after the fall of first wicket. However, it was Bharti Fulmali who came to bat at No. 3 as the team management focused on giving all the players some time in the middle.

Since the target was less, the Indian team came out all guns blazing and despite losing two early wickets, they chased down the target comfortably in the end. Shafali Verma finished the game with a six over long-on as India defeated Japan by 7 wickets.

Smriti Mandhana batting position became the talking point after the fans didn't see her come out to bat. The left-handed opener is one of the most famous female cricketers in India and as a result, has a huge fan following wherever she goes. However, the fans will have to wait for the next match to watch her bat.

India Women Reach Asian Games Semi-Final

India Women showcased their class and proved why they are amongst the best women's cricket teams in the world. Their bowling attack, led by the spinners Shree Charani and Shafali Verma, didn't allow the Japanese batters to get going at any point.

During the run-chase of the IND-W vs JPN-W match, Shafali Verma proved her class once again with a blistering 40 off just 15 balls. The Women in Blue lost G Kamalini and Bharti Fulmali cheaply but Richa Ghosh scored a quickfire 12 to take her team home. India will now face Bangladesh in the second semi-final on September 20 at the same ground.