India Suffers Crushing Defeat Against New Zealand
Date: October 5, 2024
Location: Dubai International Stadium, Dubai
Event: ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2024
The Indian women’s cricket team’s ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2024 campaign got off to a terrible start as they lost their opening game by 58 runs to New Zealand. The Indian team, who found it difficult to gain momentum throughout the match, was overwhelmed by the Kiwis’ outstanding display with the bat and ball.
New Zealand’s Batting Masterclass
New Zealand elected to bat first after winning the toss, setting the tone for a difficult goal. With a combined score of 62 runs, openers Suzie Bates (27 off 24) and Georgia Plimmer (34 off 23) set the stage. But the star of the event was Sophie Devine, with her electrifying half-century. With seven boundaries in his 57 runs off 36 balls, Devine led New Zealand to a 20-over total of 160/4.
India’s Batting Woes
India’s upper order did not fire in retaliation. The best scores were Harmanpreet Kaur (15) and Smriti Mandhana (12), although none of the top six batters could score more than 15 runs. India’s middle order broke under the strain as the needed run rate increased. In 19 overs, the bowler finally bowled the side out for 102 runs.
The Bowling Of New Zealand
Lea Tahuhu (3/15) and Rosemary Mair (4/19) spearheaded the unrelenting Kiwi bowling assault. India’s batting order was completely destroyed by the pair’s combined seven wickets, preventing a comeback.
Post-Match Reactions
The team’s difficulties were recognized by Indian captain Harmanpreet Kaur, who stated, “We didn’t start well, and it was tough to come back from there.” To mount a more formidable comeback in the upcoming game, we must improve both our bowling and batting.”
“It’s a great start to the tournament, and we’re looking forward to building on this momentum,” said Sophie Devine, the captain of New Zealand, expressing her team’s excitement.
Key Statistics
- Sophie Devine’s 57 runs off 36 balls was the highest score of the match.
- Rosemary Mair’s 4/19 was the best bowling figures of the match.
- India’s 102 runs were their lowest total in the last five T20I matches.
Next Match
India will face Australia in their next group stage match on October 7, while New Zealand will take on Pakistan on October 8.
Scorecard:
New Zealand: 160/4 (20 overs)
India: 102 (19 overs)
India Suffers Crushing Defeat Against New Zealand