India Women’s Cricket Team Dominates in Second Warm-Up Win Ahead of T20 World Cup
The Indian women’s cricket team continued their impressive form in the lead-up to the Women’s T20 World Cup, securing a 28-run victory over South Africa in their second warm-up match in Dubai.
India’s batters laid the foundation for the win, posting a competitive total of 144/7 against a formidable South African bowling attack. Smriti Mandhana (21), Harmanpreet Kaur (10), Jemimah Rodrigues (30), Deepti Sharma (35*), and Richa Ghosh (36) all contributed valuable runs.
However, it was South Africa’s Ayabonga Khaka who stole the show with an exceptional bowling performance. The pacer claimed five wickets for just 25 runs in her four overs, including three wickets in her final over to restrict India’s total.
Undeterred, India’s bowlers responded magnificently in the second innings. Renuka Singh opened with a maiden over, setting the tone for a disciplined bowling display. Deepti and Harmanpreet also chipped in with economical spells, each taking a wicket.
South Africa’s openers, Laura Wolvaardt (29) and Tazmin Brits (22), provided a solid start, but India’s spinners kept the middle order in check. Chloe Tryon (24) and Annerie Dercksen (21*) fought valiantly towards the end, but the chase fell short by 28 runs.
The victory marks India’s second consecutive warm-up win, following their 20-run triumph over the West Indies. The team will now turn their attention to the Women’s T20 World Cup, which begins on Thursday in the UAE.
India will open their campaign against New Zealand on October 4, followed by matches against Pakistan (October 6), Sri Lanka (October 9), and Australia (October 13).
