Women’s T20 World Cup: Ruthless win over Sri Lanka shows India peaking just in time

Dubai: Sri Lanka faced the full might of India on Wednesday as Women In Blue roared back to form in style at the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2024. After being criticised for lacklustre display in the opening two matches, India produced a scintillating all-round performance in Dubai to knock the 2024 Asian Cup champions out of contention.

A dramatic capitulation to 102 all out against New Zealand and then a nervous chase of just 105 against Pakistan had raised eyebrows over India’s batting line-up. But Harmanpreet Kaur’s team put all those concerns to bed by posting the highest team total of the tournament with a strong batting display.

The ruthless performance not only marked their return to form but also was a big sign of things to come as the tournament enters its business end.

India peaking just in time

Unlike previous World Cups where India raised hopes by starting the tournament brightly only to crumble under pressure in the knockout stages, the 2024 edition has given India a kick up the backside. The Asian giants, who entered the tournament as one of the favourites, were given a harsh reality check by the Kiwis in the opener and although Harmanpreet and Co bounced back with a win against Pakistan, the effort and intent were far from convincing and unlike any champion side.

Intent and sloppiness, the two main issues in the opening two matches, were addressed with aplomb by the 2020 finalists.

The fielding was electric, along with their attitude. It was a remarkable turnaround., especially after the team got plenty of stick after their first couple of games. Radha Yadav, Richa Ghosh and Renuka Singh Thakur grabbed excellent catches while their ground fielding was superb.

India’s intimidating top three finally made their mark as Smriti Mandhana and Harmanpreet Singh smashed sizzling centuries while Verma showed positive intent by using her feet effectively to the spinners.

India’s convincing performance suggested they could be peaking just in time.

India exact brutal revenge

The added motivation of avenging the Asia Cup final loss to Sri Lanka in July worked wonders for India, who registered their biggest win (86) in Women’s T20 World Cup history.

The massive win catapulted India from fourth to second on the table with one game left in the group stage, against Australia in Sharjah. India’s net run rate which took a hammering after the loss against the Kiwis received a major boost ahead of the blockbuster game on Sunday. Pressure is now on New Zealand and Pakistan after India’s sensational win against the Islanders.

Full Coverage of ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2024

 Intent and sloppiness, the two main issues for India in the opening two matches, were addressed with aplomb by the 2020 finalists.  Cricket Sports News: Latest Cricket News, Cricket Live Score, Sports Breaking News from Sports Today