In a gripping ICC Women’s World Cup clash on Sunday,India defeated Pakistan by 88 runs at the historic Eden Gardens in Kolkata. The match, characterized by contrasting performances from the Indian batters and a disciplined bowling display, showcased both skill and resilience from the team.
The energetic Harleen Deol scored a solid 46 off 65 balls, while the fiery Richa Ghosh provided a sensational late surge with 35 off just 20 balls, driving India to a challenging total of 247 all out on a difficult pitch. A toss blunder, with a miscommunication resulting in Pakistan winning the toss, added to the match’s drama.
Highlighting India’s bowling prowess, Kranti Gaud led the attack with remarkable figures of 3/20, effectively dismantling Pakistan’s top order. Support came from Deepti Sharma (3/45) and Shree Charani (2/38), who exploited the conditions to suffocate the Pakistani batting lineup.
Despite a commendable innings from opener Sidra Amin, who scored 81 off 106 balls, Pakistan faltered, collapsing to 159 all out in just 43 overs.
This victory was significant for India, marking an impressive 12-0 record in One Day Internationals against Pakistan, continuing their dominance in this rivalry.
The match captivated fans not only for its thrilling cricket but also due to several unforeseen incidents. These included a rare toss blunder, a bizarre run-out involving Muneeba Ali, and a short delay caused by a swarm of insects. In a display of sportsmanship, India adhered to their “no-handshake” policy, maintaining tension throughout the encounter.
Pakistan’s pursuit of 248 runs got off to a wobbly start. The run-out of Muneeba Ali (2) was comical and set the tone for their innings. After she narrowly avoided an LBW decision, she stepped outside her crease, leaving the ball live, and was caught short by a direct hit from Deepti Sharma.
Kranti Gaud continued her rampage, quickly dismissing both Sadaf Shamas (6) and Aliya Riaz (2), leaving Pakistan reeling at 26/3.
Amin and Natalia Pervaiz (33) offered a flicker of hope with a resilient 69-run partnership. However, once their partnership dissolved under pressure, Pakistan’s batting display fell apart.
Former captain Harmanpreet Kaur and Jemimah Rodrigues contributed valuable runs earlier, but the pressure from the Pakistani bowlers kept India in check. After a brisk start courtesy of Pratika Rawal (31), who struck consecutive fours off Diana Baig, the Indian batting lineup faced intermittent setbacks.
Diana Baig impressed with the ball, securing 4/69 and alongside skipper Fatima Sana (2/38), they consistently challenged the batters, leading India into a fight for runs in the middle overs.
As the match progressed towards the conclusion, Indian innings began to flourish, thanks to Richa Ghosh’s explosive counterattack. With three fours and two sixes, she pushed India to a respectable score that ultimately set up a fortress for their bowlers.
The bowlers, led by Gaud, enforced a clinical finish, ensuring Pakistan could not mount a significant challenge as they zipped through the batting order with precision.
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, reinforcing their stellar form in this tournament.
