India’s opening pair Smriti Mandhana and Shafali Verma face a major test against South Africa’s strong pace attack in a crucial Women’s T20 World Cup 2026 clash. Ex-pacer Shikha Pandey calls SA the tournament’s best bowling unit, highlighting threats like Ismail, Kapp, and Khaka, and warns India to be cautious against swing and movement.

New Delhi: India’s opening pair of Smriti Mandhana and Shafali Verma will face their sternest examination yet when they take on South Africa in a crucial ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2026 Group A clash, according to former India pacer Shikha Pandey.

Pandey highlighted the challenge posed by South Africa’s formidable pace attack, describing it as the strongest bowling unit in the tournament. “India's opening pair of Smriti Mandhana and Shafali Verma have given India many strong starts. But they will face their toughest test yet,” Pandey said on JioStar.

“South Africa has the best bowling attack in this Women's T20 World Cup. Their new-ball pair is one of the most dangerous in the tournament.”

Pandey singled out veteran quick Shabnim Ismail and all-rounder Marizanne Kapp as key threats. “Shabnim Ismail has made a strong comeback and she’s bowling with good pace. Marizanne Kapp has already taken three wickets against Pakistan and is bowling with great control. Both will test the Indian openers with swing, seam, and bounce,” she said.