Women’s T20 World Cup match
Harmanpreet Kaur and Co. received a significant boost on Tuesday as New Zealand suffered a crushing 60-run defeat to Australia in their Women’s T20 World Cup match in Sharjah. The triumph enhanced India’s prospects of reaching the semi-finals following a difficult start to the tournament.
India has received a significant boost.(AFP)
Chasing 149 runs, New Zealand were bowled out for 88 in 19.2 overs, thanks to Megan Schutt’s three-wicket haul in 3.2 overs with only three runs conceded. Meanwhile, Annabel Sutherland received three dismissals.
Initially, Beth Mooney’s 40 from 32 balls propelled Australia to 148/8 after 20 overs. Amelia Kerr led New Zealand’s bowling attack with four wickets.
After defeating India by 58 runs, New Zealand’s loss against Australia cost them their net run rate edge. New Zealand is third in Group A, with two points from two games and a net run rate of -0.050. Meanwhile, India is fourth, with two points from two games and a net run rate of -1.217.
With two more group games left for both sides, New Zealand’s net run rate advantage over India has been diminished.
What are India’s chances in the semifinals?
India’s next group match is against Sri Lanka on Wednesday, followed by Australia. If India wins against Sri Lanka but loses against Australia, they will still qualify if New Zealand wins only one game. Then, India will hope to have a higher net run rate because they are tied in points. If India wins both games and New Zealand loses one, India will not have to be concerned about the net run rate.
Pakistan is also well-positioned to qualify. In second place, they are tied on points with New Zealand and India, but have a higher net run rate (+0.555). However, they have challenging games coming up against New Zealand and title favourites Australia.