Dhaka, Bangladesh – The Indian women’s cricket team showcased their prowess as they defeated the Bangladesh team by seven wickets in the opening match of the three-match T20 series. The clash took place at the Sher-e-Bangla Stadium in Dhaka, where Bangladesh, after losing the toss, batted first and managed to score a total of 114 runs for the loss of five wickets in their allotted 20 overs. In response, the Indian team achieved victory by reaching the target with 16.2 overs remaining, according to Dhaka Tribune, scoring 118 runs for the loss of three wickets.
Captain Harmanpreet Kaur led from the front, playing an exceptional innings, scoring an unbeaten half-century of 54 runs off just 35 balls. Her innings included two sixes and six fours. With this impressive win, India has taken a 1-0 lead in the three-match T20I series. The two teams will now face each other in the second T20 match at the Sher-e-Bangla Stadium on July 11.
Although India had to chase a relatively small target of 115 runs against Bangladesh, they faced an early setback as opener Shafali Verma was dismissed without scoring a single run, falling victim to an lbw decision in the very first over. Jemima Rodrigues, who came in to bat after Verma’s dismissal, also failed to make a significant contribution, scoring only 11 runs. However, Smriti Mandhana stepped up and steadied the innings, forming a crucial partnership of 70 runs for the third wicket with captain Harmanpreet. Mandhana was eventually dismissed after scoring 38 runs off 34 deliveries, including five boundaries. In the end, captain Harmanpreet and Yastika Bhatia ensured the victory for India. Harmanpreet remained unbeaten on 54, while Yastika contributed an unbeaten nine runs.
Bangladesh’s Sultana Khatoon took two wickets, while Marufa Akhtar claimed one wicket for the host team. In the first innings, batting first after losing the toss, Bangladesh posted a total of 114 runs for the loss of five wickets in their allocated 20 overs. Shorna Akhtar top-scored for Bangladesh with 28 runs, followed by contributions from Shobhana Mostari (23 runs), Shathi Rani (22 runs), and Shamima Sultana (17 runs). Pooja Vastrakar, Minnu Mani, and Shafali Verma each took one wicket for the Indian team.
The victory in the opening match has set a strong foundation for the Indian women’s cricket team in their quest for series triumph. The players’ exceptional performances and cohesive teamwork reflect their determination to continue their winning momentum. As the series progresses, fans eagerly await the next encounter, anticipating another exciting display of skill, strategy, and sportsmanship from both sides.
