Harmanpreet Kaur Equals Mithali Raj’s Record in India’s Narrow Defeat to Australia

October 14, 2024: In a thrilling encounter at the Women’s T20 World Cup, India skipper Harmanpreet Kaur scripted history with a stunning display, becoming the joint-highest run-scorer for India in the tournament, alongside the legendary Mithali Raj. Despite her valiant efforts, India fell agonizingly short of breaking Australia’s unbeaten streak, succumbing to a narrow 9-run defeat in their chase of 152 at a sold-out Sharjah stadium.

Harmanpreet’s 54* off 47 deliveries injected life into India’s chase. With this knock, she not only brought India close to victory but also matched Mithali Raj’s tally of 726 runs in the Women’s T20 World Cup, making her a joint record holder. She also equaled Mithali’s record of five half-centuries in the prestigious tournament.

“I’m proud to have contributed today, but it’s always hard when you come close and fall short. Australia didn’t give away easy runs, and their experience showed,” said Harmanpreet in the post-match presentation.

Although Australia’s bowling attack, led by Annabel Sutherland, thwarted India’s hopes in a tense final over, Harmanpreet’s aggressive batting in the latter part of the innings kept the audience on the edge of their seats. Starting cautiously, she quickly turned things around, hitting 35 runs in her last 22 deliveries at a strike rate of 159.09. Unfortunately, she found herself at the non-striker’s end during crucial moments of the final over.

Australia’s win maintained their unbeaten run in the tournament, while India now faces an uphill task to secure a spot in the semi-finals.