India Women vs Pakistan Women T20 World Cup 2024: In a thrilling encounter at the Women’s T20 World Cup 2024, India secured a crucial six wicket victory over arch rivals Pakistan in Dubai.
This nail-biting match saw India’s bowlers rise to the occasion, with Arundhati Reddy delivering a game-changing performance. Pakistan, despite a determined effort, was unable to defend a modest total, falling short as India’s batters chased down 106 with 7 balls to spare.
Let’s have a look into more details: India Women vs Pakistan Women T20 World Cup 2024
India’s Bowling Brilliance Sets the Stage
Pakistan’s decision to bat first after winning the toss seemed promising initially, but India’s disciplined bowling attack soon took control of the game. Arundhati Reddy was the standout performer, claiming three important wickets to stifle Pakistan’s innings. Reddy’s precise line and length made it difficult for Pakistan’s top order to build momentum, as she removed key batters and maintained pressure throughout her spell.
Pakistan’s Nida Dar offered some resistance, scoring 28 off 34 balls, but her efforts weren’t enough to set a commanding total. Shreyanka Patil also contributed to India’s success with two vital wickets, further choking Pakistan’s scoring opportunities. In the end, Pakistan managed to post a modest 105/8 in their allotted 20 overs.
India’s Controlled Chase
India’s chase of 106 started cautiously, with openers Shafali Verma and Smriti Mandhana trying to steady the innings. Despite a slow start, Shafali Verma anchored the chase with a crucial knock of 32 from 35 balls, hitting three boundaries to keep the scoreboard ticking. However, wickets fell at regular intervals, keeping the match on edge.
Jemimah Rodrigues (23 off 28) and captain Harmanpreet Kaur (29 off 24) played key supporting roles to guide India closer to the target. Harmanpreet’s innings was cut short due to injury, but her impactful contribution helped build the momentum India needed.
With India requiring just two runs from the final eight balls, Sajana clinched the victory with a quick double, sealing a crucial win for India with a score of 108/4 in 18.5 overs.
Reddy’s Magic Spell
Arundhati Reddy’s exceptional spell was the turning point in this closely-fought match. Her ability to dismiss key Pakistan batters and consistently bowl in the right areas put India in the driver’s seat. Her three-wicket haul restricted Pakistan to a sub par total, allowing India’s batters to chase the target with composure.
Speaking after the match, Indian captain Smriti Mandhana praised the team’s bowling unit, saying, “As a bowling unit, we were very disciplined, and in the field, we were good too. This win gives us some momentum, and hopefully, we can keep going strong in this tournament.”
Pakistan’s Missed Opportunities
Pakistan captain Fatima Sana admitted that her side fell short by at least 10-15 runs. “We weren’t up to the mark with the bat,” she said, reflecting on the missed opportunities to build partnerships and put pressure on India’s bowlers. Despite the defeat, Pakistan showed flashes of brilliance, particularly through Sana’s two-wicket haul, but they couldn’t capitalize on key moments.
Key Takeaways
- Arundhati Reddy’s stellar three-wicket performance anchored India’s victory.
- Pakistan’s Nida Dar top-scored with 28 but couldn’t help her team post a competitive total.
- India chased down the target of 106 in 18.5 overs, with Shafali Verma scoring 32.
- Harmanpreet Kaur retired hurt but played a crucial knock of 29 runs.
India’s win over Pakistan not only gives them vital points in the group stage but also boosts their confidence after an earlier defeat to New Zealand. With momentum on their side, India will look to build on this performance in their upcoming matches. On the other hand, Pakistan will aim to regroup and address their batting vulnerabilities as they move forward in the tournament.
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FAQs
Who won the India vs Pakistan Women’s T20 World Cup 2024 match?
India won the match by 6 wickets