Shafali Verma, a fearless Indian opener, will spearhead India's campaign at the ICC Women's T20 World Cup 2026 alongside Smriti Mandhana.
As the ICC Women's T20 World Cup 2026 approaches, Shafali Verma is set to play a pivotal part in India's title ambitions. She will partner Smriti Mandhana at the top of the order during this high-stakes tournament. This Shafali Verma biography offers a detailed look into the private and professional life of one of India's most exciting cricketers. The match-winner from the 2025 ICC Women's World Cup final, Shafali Verma is celebrated for her explosive batting at the top and her knack for turning games around single-handedly. This Shafali Verma wiki traces her extraordinary journey from a fearless youngster who broke norms—including training disguised as a boy—to becoming India's youngest U19 World Cup-winning captain. The robust frame of the right-handed opener is maintained at approximately 74 kg through dedicated fitness routines. Her strength and conditioning allow her to unleash powerful drives that consistently dismantle bowling attacks worldwide. Shafali Verma was born and raised in Rohtak, a city renowned for nurturing top-tier Indian athletes. She spent her formative years in the same city, which proudly claims her as one of its own. Even as a child, she defied conventions by cutting her hair short to gain entry into a boys-only cricket academy. Her academic pursuits took a backseat due to her demanding cricketing commitments. Shafali Verma completed her primary education at St. Paul School in Rohtak, later enrolling at Mandeep Senior Secondary School, where she balanced academics, domestic fixtures, and rigorous training. Wearing both the Indian blue jersey and the Delhi Capitals franchise colors, Shafali Verma wears jersey number 17. This number has evolved into a trademark of her bold and assertive approach, striking fear into opposition bowlers from the very first ball. Shafali Verma is a hard-hitting Indian batter who opens the innings with aggressive intent and raw power. Her height stands at 5 feet and 4 inches. As of 2026, Shafali Verma is 22 years old, having been born on January 28, 2004. All visuals included are for editorial use only and are property of Getty/Source.