Daijiworld Media Network – Manchester
Manchester, Jun 26: India stayed in contention for a place in the Women's T20 World Cup semifinals with a convincing five-wicket victory over Bangladesh at Old Trafford on Thursday, thanks to a blistering half-century from Shafali Verma and disciplined bowling by Radha Yadav and Shree Charani.
Chasing a target of 137, India made light work of the total, reaching 137/5 in just 16.5 overs. Shafali led the charge with a scintillating 53 off 34 balls, dominating both pace and spin as India raced to 63/1 during the powerplay.
The opener brought up her second Women's T20 World Cup fifty in only 29 deliveries before being run out in an unusual fashion after attempting a non-existent single.
Although India lost a few quick wickets in the middle overs, Jemimah Rodrigues ensured there were no further hiccups, scoring an unbeaten 26 off 15 balls to guide the team home comfortably.
The win keeps India's semifinal hopes alive following their defeat to South Africa earlier in the tournament. Harmanpreet Kaur's side is now expected to require a victory over Australia in their final Group A fixture on June 28 to seal a place in the knockout stage.
Earlier, Bangladesh, who opted to bat, posted 136/8 in their allotted 20 overs.
Renuka Singh Thakur, playing her first match of the tournament, struck early by dismissing Dilara Akter. Bangladesh recovered through Juairiya Ferdous (33) and Sobhana Mostary (22), while captain Nigar Sultana contributed 32 off 27 deliveries.
India's spinners then tightened their grip on the innings. Radha Yadav produced an impressive spell of 3/28, dismissing both Mostary and Nigar at crucial stages, while Shree Charani continued her excellent form with figures of 2/21, including two wickets in the final over to restrict Bangladesh to a below-par total.
Despite the comprehensive victory, India's fielding once again raised concerns. The team dropped four catches during the powerplay, with Nandini Sharma, Yastika Bhatia and Radha Yadav missing straightforward opportunities.
Bangladesh opener Juairiya Ferdous survived three dropped chances before eventually falling to Nandini, who redeemed herself with a sharp return catch.
India also struggled with discipline, conceding seven wides and three no-balls during Bangladesh's innings.
Nevertheless, India's strong batting display and effective bowling attack proved enough to secure a vital victory and keep their Women's T20 World Cup campaign alive.