Opener Shafali Verma smashed a brilliant half-century as India defeated Bangladesh by five wickets in their Women’s T20 World Cup Group A match at Old Trafford on Thursday, keeping their semifinal hopes alive despite another disappointing fielding display.
Chasing a target of 137, India reached 137/5 in 16.5 overs, thanks largely to Shafali’s explosive 53 off 34 balls, which included an array of attacking strokes against both pace and spin. She brought up her second Women’s T20 World Cup half-century in just 29 deliveries, giving India a commanding start.
After Smriti Mandhana departed early, Shafali dominated the Bangladesh bowlers and guided India to 63/1 in the powerplay. Her innings ended in an unusual manner when she was stumped after attempting a non-existent single off spinner Nahida Akter.
A brief slowdown in the middle overs was overcome by Jemimah Rodrigues, whose quickfire 26 off 15 balls ensured India comfortably crossed the finish line.
Earlier, Bangladesh posted 136/8 after India’s fielding once again came under scrutiny. The Indian side dropped four straightforward catches inside the powerplay, continuing a worrying trend after similar lapses in the previous defeat against South Africa.
Bangladesh opener Juairiya Ferdous was the biggest beneficiary of India’s poor fielding, receiving three reprieves before eventually scoring 33 off 31 balls. Indian fielders Nandni Sharma, Yastika Bhatia, and Radha Yadav were among those guilty of missed opportunities.
Despite the fielding errors, India’s bowlers managed to restrict Bangladesh. Radha Yadav starred with the ball, claiming 3 wickets for 28 runs, including the crucial dismissals of captain Nigar Sultana (32) and Sobhana Mostary (22). Spinner Shree Charani delivered an excellent final over, picking up two wickets while conceding just three runs, while Renuka Singh Thakur, making her first appearance in the tournament, struck in her opening over.
India’s discipline with the ball, however, remained a concern as they conceded seven wides and three no-balls.
With the victory, India remain in contention for a place in the semifinals but face a must-win clash against Australia on June 28 to keep their campaign alive.
