India’s Women’s T20 World Cup campaign took a major hit after a heartbreaking defeat to Australia in a crucial group-stage match on Sunday. The loss has left India on the verge of an early exit, which would be their first group-stage elimination since 2016. India had reached at least the semifinals in the previous three editions, including a final appearance in 2020.
Harmanpreet Kaur anchored the Indian innings after opener Shafali Verma provided an aggressive start with a 13-ball 21. However, India’s top order crumbled, and it was Harmanpreet, along with Deepti Sharma, who steadied the ship with a half-century partnership. Despite Harmanpreet’s unbeaten fifty, India fell short, managing only 142 for nine in their chase of 152, as Australia’s bowling attack held firm.
After the match, while Indian fans expressed their disappointment on social media, former cricketer Sanjay Manjrekar, who had been part of the commentary team for Star Sports during the game, posted a tweet in support of the team. He praised India for their resilience, particularly Harmanpreet’s efforts, stating: “No other team other than India would have come so close to the big target Aus set on a difficult pitch. I say, well done India! And again what a star Harman is!”
However, Manjrekar’s positive remarks didn’t sit well with many fans, who criticized him on social media, calling his comments “delusional” and “out of touch” with the frustrations of the fans.
India’s fate in the tournament now hinges on the final Group A match between Pakistan and New Zealand, scheduled for Monday in Dubai. If Pakistan secures a narrow victory over the White Ferns, India could still progress to the semifinals alongside Australia. However, a large-margin win for Pakistan or any victory for New Zealand would result in India’s elimination from the competition.
