The ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2024 has already begun. India is grouped with Australia, Pakistan, New Zealand, and Sri Lanka. Being at the group of death the Women in Blue had the worst possible start in their opening game against the Kiwis. They lost against the Black Caps in the first game by 58 runs. Harmanpreet Kaur’s side was outplayed in every aspect of the game.
In the second match on Sunday, they faced their arch-rivals Pakistan. Fatima Sana’s side had a great start to the campaign as they defeated Asian Champions Sri Lanka. However, coming to this all-important clash they failed to hold onto their nerves. After winning the toss Pakistan elected to bat first. Sana’s side was never in the game as they kept losing wickets and scored just 105/8 in their 20 overs.
Arundhuti Reddy picked up three wickets and Renuka Singh, Deepti Sharma, and Asha Sobhana picked one wicket each. Shreyanka Patil picking up two. Nida Dar was the highest run-getter of Pakistan’s innings with 28 runs. Coming to chase India lost the wicket of Smriti Mandhana early. However, Shafali Verma and Jemimah Rodrigues stitched a partnership bringing back the Women in Blue in the game.
India has a difficult road ahead
Harmanpreet Kaur was retired hurt after scoring 29 runs. It will be a concern for the team with their captain’s injury. Will India go through to the semi-final with a negative run rate? India needs to win big in their next two games against Sri Lanka and Australia respectively to confirm their place in the semi-final of the tournament. They need to win against the Lankan Lions to keep their hopes alive till the final game.
Kaur’s injury can be a setback for India with her experience as captain and batter in the middle order. The fans and the management will hope that it is a minor injury and she can play in the next match. All eyes will be on the Australia vs New Zealand game with both teams holding the top 2 position of the group phase.
Do you think India’s Women will qualify for the semi-final of the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup? Let us know in the comments. Also, share with us about your favourite Indian player in the team and whether have you seen them live from the stadium or on television.
