India secured a commanding six-wicket victory over Pakistan in a thrilling encounter during the Women’s T20 World Cup 2024 at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium.
India’s chase began with openers Shafali Verma (32) and Smriti Mandhana (7) putting together an 18-run partnership. Pakistan found their first breakthrough when Sadia Iqbal dismissed Mandhana in the fifth over. Jemimah Rodrigues (23) then joined Verma, and together they built a steady 43-run stand.
However, Pakistan clawed their way back into the game with quick wickets. Omaima Sohail removed Verma in the 12th over, and Fatima Sana struck twice in the 14th over, dismissing Rodrigues and Richa Ghosh for a golden duck. This left India in a precarious position.
Captain Harmanpreet Kaur then played a crucial knock of 29 off 24 balls, leading India’s recovery alongside Deepti Sharma. The pair focused on rotating the strike, avoiding any unnecessary risks, and guiding India closer to the target. Kaur’s innings was highlighted by a boundary in the 18th over, which brought India past the 100-run mark.
With just a few runs needed for victory, Harmanpreet Kaur suffered a neck injury and had to retire hurt in the 19th over. S Sajana stepped in and sealed the win in style, hitting a boundary to wrap up the match with six wickets in hand.
Arundhati Reddy receives Player Of the match award For her economical match-winning three-wicket haul
India’s disciplined bowling, particularly from Reddy, followed by Kaur’s calm captaincy in the chase, ensured they emerged victorious in this high-stakes clash.
