Cardiff: India suffered a narrow five-run defeat against England in their final Women’s T20 World Cup warm-up match, despite a sensational late assault by wicketkeeper-batter Richa Ghosh that nearly pulled off an unlikely victory.
Chasing a competitive target of 172, India were bowled out for 166 in 19.5 overs, with England holding their nerve in the final moments to seal the win. The defeat highlighted persistent concerns around India’s top-order batting, which failed to provide a solid platform once again.
England post competitive total
After India captain Harmanpreet Kaur opted to bowl, England built a strong innings anchored by half-centuries from Amy Jones and skipper Nat Sciver-Brunt. Jones struck a fluent 64 off 45 balls, while Sciver-Brunt contributed 57 off 45 deliveries, with both batters displaying control and aggression in equal measure.
The duo added a crucial 70-run partnership that stabilised England’s innings after a cautious start. India’s bowlers managed to keep the scoring in check during the middle overs, particularly around a brief rain interruption, but were unable to fully capitalise.
The turning point came in the final over of the innings, when Dani Gibson unleashed a blistering assault on Renuka Singh. Gibson smashed two fours and a six, collecting 19 runs in the over to finish unbeaten on 30 off just 12 balls. England eventually posted 171 for 6, a total that proved just enough.
India’s top order falters again
India’s chase got off to a shaky start, with Smriti Mandhana continuing her lean patch. She was dismissed for just one run, extending a worrying sequence in which she has struggled to make significant contributions in recent innings.
Shafali Verma showed early intent with a brisk 13 off six balls but failed to convert her start, while Yastika Bhatia (15), Harmanpreet Kaur (17), and Bharti Fulmali (18) also got starts but could not build substantial innings. Regular wickets prevented India from building any sustained momentum.
At 132 for 7 in 17.3 overs, the match appeared firmly in England’s grasp, with India requiring a remarkable turnaround to stay in contention.
Richa’s late heroics nearly seal win
Richa Ghosh, however, had other ideas. The young batter launched a stunning counter-attack, taking the game deep into the final over with an array of fearless strokes.
Needing 38 runs from the last two overs, Richa took charge against Issy Wong, smashing three boundaries and a six to collect 21 runs in the penultimate over. Her aggressive approach brought the equation down to 17 runs off the final over.
Continuing her onslaught against left-arm spinner Linsey Smith, Richa struck a four and a towering straight six, reducing the target to just six runs from three balls. With victory within touching distance, England found themselves under immense pressure.
However, Smith held her nerve and outfoxed Richa, drawing her out of the crease as wicketkeeper Alice Capsey completed a crucial stumping. The dismissal effectively ended India’s hopes.
Renuka Singh attempted a big hit in the following delivery but was caught, as India were bowled out with one ball remaining.
England bowlers deliver under pressure
England’s bowling unit played a vital role in defending the target. Linsey Smith was the standout performer with figures of 3 for 42, delivering under pressure in the final over.
Dani Gibson complemented her all-round performance by picking up two important wickets in the middle overs, finishing with 2 for 17 in just two overs. Charlie Dean (2/1) and Tilly Corteen-Coleman (2/22) also chipped in with crucial breakthroughs.
Positives and concerns for India
Despite the defeat, there were some positives for India, particularly in their bowling performance. Shreyanka Patil impressed with figures of 2 for 29, striking twice in successive deliveries to dismiss Sciver-Brunt and Dean in the penultimate over.
Radha Yadav also bowled with discipline, returning 1 for 38, while Shafali Verma contributed with the ball, taking one wicket for 18 runs in two overs.
However, the decision not to use experienced all-rounder Deepti Sharma raised questions, as India experimented with multiple bowling options.
The bigger concern remains the top-order batting, which has failed to fire consistently. With the Women’s T20 World Cup approaching, India will need their senior batters to regain form and provide stability at the top.
Conclusion
India’s narrow defeat against England serves as a timely reminder of the areas that need improvement ahead of the T20 World Cup. While Richa Ghosh’s brilliant innings showcased the team’s fighting spirit and lower-order strength, the lack of contributions from the top order proved costly.
As the tournament approaches, India will be keen to address these issues and build a more balanced performance, ensuring they are better prepared for the challenges ahead.