Indian women crash out of the Women’s T20 World Cup 2024

The Indian women’s team campaign at the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2024 ended after Pakistan failed to defeat New Zealand in the last encounter of Group A, and the White Ferns won the game by 54 runs. 

The equation for qualification was simple for India — they had to hope that Pakistan defeat New Zealand. That would have ensured that Sophie Devine’s side also remains on four points as India, and since India have the better net run rate, they would made to the semifinal along with Australia from Group A. 

However, Pakistan also had a chance of qualifying if they had chased the total at a really high strike rate that would have bridged the NRR gao between them and India, confirming their qualification. Unfortunately for Fatima Sana, who just returned from Pakistan after having to leave the tournament urgently following her father’s demise, that was not the case as Pakistan’s daring effort with the bat fell significantly short. 

Pakistan bowled well after New Zealand chose to bat first. Nashra Sandhu was spectacular, picking up three wickets in four overs for just 18 runs, along with Omaima Sohail who had figures of 4-0-14-1 after the innings. That ensured that New Zealand could score only 110/6. The score would have been even lower had Pakistan not dropped eight catches in an embarrassing fielding display. 

The Pakistani batters came with great intent to chase down the total as soon as possible. However, they lacked execution, and they were bundled out for just 56 in 11.4 overs, the second-lowest total in T20 World Cup history and their lowest total in the competition. 

Earlier, India shot themselves in the foot after a slow start to the tournament against New Zealand. The 58-run defeat in their first group A game ensured that despite two victories (one of them by 58 runs) and a close defeat in their last group game against Australia, India’s qualification for the semifinals was not in their own hands, and they eventually crashed out of the tournament with Pakistan's defeat.

If you’ve not downloaded the Cricket.com app yet, you’re missing out on our content — big time. Download the App here.