The Indian women’s cricket team suffered its second-largest defeat in T20 World Cups the Women in Blue lost their 2024 World Cup opener to New Zealand by 58 runs. In reply to 161, India were folded for just 102.
India were handed a target of 161 by the White Ferns on a pitch that seemed to be slow. The Indians were never in the run-chase with the highest individual scorer being captain Harmanpreet Kaur, who made 15. Lea Tahuhu showed her experience and was the pick of the bowlers. She scalped 3/15 in her four overs to lead the charge with the ball. Spinners Eden Carson and Amelia Kerr and medium pacer Rosemary Mair shared the five other wickets.
With the loss, India’s semifinal hopes have taken a hit in the first game itself. The group features five teams with only two making it to the next stage. India have to face the six-time winners Australia along with Asian champions Sri Lanka in the matches to follow. Any further hiccup might well cost them a spot in the semis.
With this win, New Zealand have ended their 10-match losing streak. The White Ferns’ last T20I win came in March 2024 when they managed to win one game in the five-match series against England at home. The Sophie Devine-led side has lost 5-0 to England away from home before a 3-0 loss to Australia in the lead-up to the tournament.
More to follow…
