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India registered a vital six-wicket win against Pakistan in the Women’s T20 World Cup 2024 in Dubai on Sunday (October 6), chasing down a modest target of 106 runs with ease. Pakistan, after being asked to bat first, struggled to 105/8, largely due to Arundhati Reddy‘s impressive spell of 3/19. India, determined to boost their net run rate after a heavy defeat to New Zealand, saw solid contributions from Shafali Verma (32) and captain Harmanpreet Kaur, who anchored the chase with a crucial knock of 29 runs off 24 balls.
Harmanpreet Kaur retires hurt in penultimate over against Pakistan
In a concerning moment during India’s run chase, skipper Harmanpreet retired hurt in the penultimate over. After a well-compiled innings of 29, Harmanpreet lost her balance while attempting a run, visibly grimacing in pain as she clutched her neck. The Indian skipper had to walk off the field immediately, leaving fans and the team worried about her condition as India needed only a few more runs to seal the victory. Sajeevan Sajana then finished off the chase with a boundary, ensuring India’s win, but Harmanpreet’s injury left lingering concerns.
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Smriti Mandhana provides injury update on Harmanpreet
After the match, it was Smriti Mandhana who stepped in for the post-match presentation instead of Harmanpreet. Addressing the captain’s injury, Mandhana explained that the medical team was assessing Harmanpreet’s condition. “It’s too soon to say anything. The medical team is looking into it,” Mandhana said, keeping the team and fans hopeful that the skipper’s injury isn’t severe. Harmanpreet’s presence is crucial for India as they aim to progress further in the tournament.
Mandhana further admitted that India’s run-chase could have been more efficient. While pleased with the win, she emphasized that the team could have batted better. “We have been very disciplined, followed the plans. In the field, we were very good. A better start with the bat would have been good, but we will take that win,” Mandhana concluded, acknowledging both the positives and the areas to work on.
India improves NRR but still trails group leaders
Despite their victory over Pakistan, India’s net run rate, which improved from -2.900 to -1.217, still lags behind other leading teams in the tournament. Mandhana and her team know they must continue to perform well in upcoming matches to catch up to New Zealand (+2.900) and Australia (+1.908), who are currently ahead in the group standings.
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This article was first published at WomenCricket.com, a Cricket Times company.
