In a spectacular display of cricket, the Indian women’s team decisively outplayed South Africa in the third and final T20I, thereby avoiding a series loss and leveling the series 1-1. The emphatic 10-wicket victory at the MA Chidambaram Stadium not only exemplified India’s cricketing prowess but also served as a crucial preparatory win before the Women’s Asia Cup, set to begin on July 19.
Chasing a modest target of 85, Indian openers Shafali Verma and Smriti Mandhana showcased impeccable skill and coordination, guiding the team to victory without losing a single wicket. The duo completed the chase in just over 10 overs, a testament to their aggressive yet calculated approach. This win in Chennai marks an important milestone as it was India’s final T20I ahead of the upcoming Asia Cup.
The foundation of this victory was laid by the bowlers, who fiercely dominated the Proteas batting lineup. Pooja Vastrakar emerged as the standout performer with an impressive figure of 4 wickets for just 13 runs in 3.1 overs. Her dismantling of the South African middle order was crucial, while Radha Yadav provided stellar support by clinching 3 wickets for merely 6 runs in her three overs. Complementing them were Deepti Sharma, Arundhati Reddy, and Shreyanka Patil, each contributing a wicket and ensuring that the South African innings never gained momentum.
As South Africa stuttered to 84 all out, India’s chase was a display of pure dominance and determination. Smriti Mandhana started aggressively, scoring two boundaries off Ayabonga Khaka’s opening over. Despite a brief containment by the South African bowlers, who delivered three tight overs for just eight runs, Shafali Verma swiftly regained control. She struck two powerful boundaries against Eliz-mari Marx, revitalizing India’s momentum.
By the seventh over, India had accelerated to 51 runs, leaving South Africa with minimal chances.
. A notable moment of the match occurred in the ninth over when Laura Wolvaardt missed a difficult catch opportunity off Shafali Verma at extra cover — the only real chance South Africa had to turn things around.
Mandhana continued her assault, striking a boundary towards point to bring the target within single digits. She sealed the victory in commanding fashion by hitting a six over fine-leg, not only bringing up her half-century but also ensuring an undefeated 54 off 40 balls. Shafali Verma, equally commendable, remained unbeaten with 27 runs off 25 deliveries.
This victory was a morale booster ahead of the Women’s Asia Cup, instilling confidence in the team’s preparations and strategies. For her exceptional four-wicket haul, Pooja Vastrakar was deservedly named both the Player of the Match and the Player of the Series. Reflecting on the series, India started off with a loss in the opening T20I, falling 12 runs short while chasing a formidable target of 190. The second match was marred by rain, resulting in a washout after South Africa posted a competitive 177 in their innings.
This dominant performance against South Africa serves as an encouraging precursor to the forthcoming international fixtures, underscoring India’s readiness and tactical depth. The comprehensive all-round performance is a testament to the team’s solid preparation and their potential to challenge any opposition. With the Asia Cup approaching, this victory offers a strategic advantage, bolstering the team’s morale and providing a template for success in forthcoming matches.
The Indian women’s cricket team, often overshadowed by their male counterparts, continue to carve out their legacy through performances like these. Their relentless spirit, combined with strategic brilliance and individual brilliance from players like Mandhana and Vastrakar, positions them as a formidable force on the global stage.
As fans and analysts alike celebrate this crucial victory, the focus now shifts to the Women’s Asia Cup. The Indian team, buoyed by their recent success, aims to carry forward their winning momentum, and this T20I win sets a promising tone for what lies ahead.
