At the Women’s T20 World Cup 2024, Harmanpreet Kaur conceded that New Zealand was the superior team in match No. 4, which was played on Friday, October 4 at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium in Dubai. To begin their campaign, the Women in Blue were crushed by the White Ferns, 58 runs to the run.
Sophie Devine, the skipper of New Zealand, led from the front as her side amassed 160/4, the greatest team total in the ninth edition of the prestigious tournament, thanks to her undefeated 36-ball 57. Seamers Rosemary Mair and Lea Tahuhu took four and three wickets in the second innings, respectively, to help India be bowled out for 102 in 19 overs.
“Our cricket wasn’t at its best. We understand that every game is crucial going forward. We created opportunities but failed to take use of them. Without a doubt, they played better cricket than we did,” Harmanpreet remarked at the press conference following the game.
The Indian side had experience chasing totals of 160 or more, according to Harmanpreet, but he believed that their progress was hindered by their frequent wicket losses.
“We anticipated that on the board, and we have chased 160–170 numerous times. We knew someone had to bat through when we were batting, but we kept losing wickets. stated Kaur.
“We know this group is capable of better; this wasn’t the start we were expecting, but we have to go from here,” she said.
Fielding disaster acknowledged by Harmanpreet Kaur
In the field, India fell short of expectations due to misfields and dropped catches that undermined the bowling unit’s efforts. Prior to the next games, Harmanpreet admitted that her side has to improve their fielding.
The 35-year-old said, “Fielding mistakes were made, so that is a learning for us going forward.”
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India’s chances of making it to the semi-finals are significantly diminished with this loss because they still have to play Australia, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka in Group A.