Harmanpreet Kaur-led India on October 6 opened their win account in Women’s T20 World Cup 2024. When India restricted arch-rivals Pakistan for 105/8, the openers were expected to all guns blazing to improve their net run rate (NRR) after the massive 58-run loss to New Zealand in first game. However, India struggled in the run chase before eventually chasing the target down with seven balls to spare. After the six-wicket win on a slow track at Dubai International Cricket Stadium, ‘Player of the match’ Arundhati Reddy said winning the game was more important than NRR.
“We understand net run rate is important but winning the game is more important for us. Like you said again net run rate will be in play especially in this group. Today the wicket was playing a little slower. So obviously, the batters could not. The main thing was to finish the game. But we've discussed about it. And we're looking forward to improve on it in the next few games,” Arundhati told the reporters after the match.
NRR in Group A
India's NRR improved from -2.900 to -1.217. They are placed fourth in Group A points table. New Zealand (+2.900), defending champions Australia (+1.908) and Pakistan (0.555) have a considerably better NRR than Pakistan. India need to register a big win against Sri Lanka on October. Sri Lanka have lost their two games against Pakistan and Australia.
Arundhati elated after best bowling figures
Arundhati who registered her T20I best bowling figures of 3/19 said that the performance came after a long time.
“It's been a long time, four years, but again, honestly with me right now the focus is to do well for the team,” said the Indian pacer who wrecked Pakistan’s middle order.
“I know I'm much prepared now than what I was back in 2020 but again I've come into this set up with a lot of confidence and I know I can deliver for the team as and when it's required. I'm just looking forward to keep doing that, keep continuing to win games for India.”
Arundhati on dropped catches
While India did not let Pakistan post a threatening total, their fielding was once again mediocre as they dropped a couple of catches. Arundhati said that the fielding department is still a work in progress.
“As a team, we have been working very hard on our fielding. I knew there were a few lapses but we are happy as long as the team wins. Obviously, it's a work in progress, and I'm sure we'll get there soon,” said the 27-year-old.
