India claimed an impressive 88-run victory against Pakistan in a riveting ICC Women’s World Cup match held on Sunday. This thrilling encounter unfolded at the iconic Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai, marking another milestone in the fierce rivalry between the two teams.
Harleen Deol and Richa Ghosh played pivotal roles, guiding India to a total of 247 all out after losing the toss. Pakistan, opting to field first, struggled throughout their innings, folding for just 159 in 43 overs.
Deol made a steady contribution with an elegant 46 off 65 balls, while Ghosh showcased her explosiveness, scoring 35 off just 20 balls. The partnership was crucial on a sluggish pitch that tested the skills of both batters.
India’s match began under unusual circumstances due to a toss confusion, but the team quickly found their footing. The prevailing humidity in Mumbai made batting challenging, yet India managed to establish a competitive score.
Pacer Kranti Gaud spearheaded India’s bowling attack, delivering a blistering spell that earned her 3 wickets for just 20 runs. Gaud’s efforts significantly dismantled Pakistan’s top order and set the tone for the remaining bowlers.
Joining her in the bowling onslaught, Deepti Sharma also contributed effectively, picking up 3 wickets for 45 runs, while Shree Charani supported with 2 wickets for 38 runs.
Despite a commendable fightback from Pakistan’s opener, Sidra Amin, who scored 81 off 106 deliveries, the team faltered under pressure. Amin’s resistance proved insufficient as wickets continued to fall at the other end.
The match brimmed with unpredictable moments, including a bizarre run-out of Muneeba Ali. After narrowly escaping an LBW, she inadvertently stepped out of her crease, leading to a direct hit from Deepti Sharma, leaving Pakistan 26 for 3
Pakistan’s middle-order resilience came from a brief 69-run partnership between Amin and Natalia Pervaiz, who added a notable 33 runs. However, as soon as this partnership broke, any semblance of balance disappeared as the remaining batters succumbed to India’s disciplined bowling.
Earlier, the Indian innings showcased a captivating cricketing display. With fresh momentum, Pratika Rawal began strongly, striking 31 runs while hitting three consecutive boundaries off Diana Baig, who ultimately claimed 4 for 69.
Despite the initial setbacks, the experienced duo of Deol and Harmanpreet Kaur contributed important runs before Ghosh’s late flourish set the total beyond Pakistan’s grasp.
India’s victory reflected their growing dominance, as this win further extended their unbeaten record against Pakistan in ODIs to 12-0. Notably, the match also saw the continuation of India’s controversial “no-handshake” policy amidst rising tensions.
As they continue their campaign, India’s performance in this match sets a strong precedent. The team looks forward to building on this momentum as they advance further in the Women’s World Cup.
Brief Scores:
India Women: 247 all out in 50 overs (Harleen Deol 46, Richa Ghosh 35*, Jemimah Rodrigues 32; Diana Baig 4/69, Fatima Sana 2/38).
Pakistan Women: 159 all out in 43 overs (Sidra Amin 81; Kranti Gaud 3/20, Deepti Sharma 3/45, Shree Charani 2/38).
Result: India won by 88 runs.
