In a crucial match at the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2024, the Indian women’s cricket team secured their first points by defeating Pakistan by six wickets. Following the victory, vice-captain Smriti Mandhana provided an update on skipper Harmanpreet Kaur’s injury status, which raised concerns during the match.
Update on Harmanpreet Kaur’s Injury
Speaking at the post-match presentation, Smriti Mandhana addressed the media regarding Kaur’s health. “Too soon to say anything; the medics are looking at it. Hopefully, she is alright,” Mandhana stated, reflecting the team’s cautious optimism about their captain’s condition. Kaur had to leave the field in the 19th over after injuring her neck while attempting to return to the crease.
Kaur’s injury occurred when she missed a swipe off Nida Dar’s delivery and, in her effort to get back into position, seemed to hurt her neck. Despite India being just two runs away from victory, Kaur walked off after receiving medical attention from the physio.
India’s Clinical Performance
Despite the earlier loss to New Zealand, India bounced back with a disciplined bowling performance against Pakistan. The Indian bowlers restricted Pakistan to a mere 105 runs in their innings. Mandhana praised her team’s efforts, stating, “As a bowling unit, we were very disciplined and in the field we were good too.”
During the run chase, although India faced a brief setback with a double-strike from Pakistan’s Fatima Sana, they managed to complete their target with seven balls to spare. Sajana Sajeevan made a notable contribution by hitting a boundary off her first ball faced.
Mandhana acknowledged that while there were areas for improvement, particularly with their batting start, this victory would provide momentum for India as they progress in the tournament. “We could have done with a better start with the bat, but we will take this,” she noted.
With Kaur’s fitness still uncertain, India’s next steps will be crucial as they prepare for their next game against Asia Champions Sri Lanka in this highly competitive tournament. The team will be hoping for a swift recovery for their captain as they aim for further success.
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