3 Reasons Why India Women Defeated Pakistan Women In Low-Scoring Thriller In T20 WC 2024
India Women secured a thrilling six-wicket win vs Pakistan Women [Source: @ICC/x.com]
India Women once again showcased their dominance over Pakistan Women in Match 7 of the Women’s T20 World Cup 2024 at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium. In a game that was more tense than the scoreboard might suggest, India chased down a modest target of 106, winning by six wickets with just a few balls to spare.
The win was the result of some fine performances, but a few factors stood out in particular. Let’s break down the three key reasons behind India’s crucial victory over Pakistan Women.
1. Arundhati Reddy’s Game-Changing Spell
When the chips were down for Pakistan Women, Arundhati Reddy stepped up and delivered a match-winning performance with the ball. Her spell of 3/19 in four overs not only rattled the Pakistan middle order but also restricted any chances of a recovery.
Her dismissal of Omaima Sohail and then Aliya Riaz right when Pakistan Women were trying to build a platform halted their momentum completely.
Reddy’s control, especially in the middle overs, ensured Pakistan never got the breathing room to accelerate. She also dismissed Pakistan’s top scorer Nida Dar in the final over of the innings. By striking at critical moments, she applied relentless pressure that Pakistan simply couldn’t handle.
2. Harmanpreet Kaur’s Calm and Composed Knock
A captain's true strength is tested when the going gets tough, and Harmanpreet Kaur proved just why she’s the backbone of this Indian team. When India’s chase seemed to falter at 80/4 after a double strike by Pakistan skipper Fatima Sana, Kaur remained cool as a cucumber and took charge of the situation.
With the equation boiling down to 26 runs needed off 27 balls, Kaur focused on keeping the scoreboard ticking. Her 29 off 24 balls may not have been flashy, but it was an innings of immense importance.
By rotating the strike with Deepti Sharma and avoiding unnecessary risks, Kaur ensured that India crossed the finish line without further drama. Her ability to stay composed under pressure was the calm in the storm that guided India to victory.
3. Collective Bowling Performance by India
While Arundhati Reddy grabbed the headlines, the rest of India’s bowling attack was equally effective. Renuka Singh set the tone right from the first over by removing Gul Feroza for a duck, and from there, every Indian bowler contributed to the cause.
Shreyanka Patil’s spell of 2/12, including a maiden, strangled Pakistan’s scoring rate, making it difficult for them to gain any momentum.
Each of India’s five bowlers picked up at least one wicket, showcasing a balanced attack. The team’s ability to spread the load and keep Pakistan under pressure at all stages of the innings meant that there was never any let-up.
Pakistan’s final total of 105/8 was well below par on a pitch that had something for the bowlers, and it was India’s collective effort in the field that made it possible.