• Home
  • Cricket News
  • Harmanpreet Kaur And Co In Dire Need Of Favour From Pakistan To Qualify For T20 World Cup 2024 Semifinals

Harmanpreet Kaur And Co In Dire Need Of Favour From Pakistan To Qualify For T20 World Cup 2024 Semifinals

India Women at the T20 World Cup 2024 [Source: @T20WorldCup/X]India Women at the T20 World Cup 2024 [Source: @T20WorldCup/X]

In an unexpected turn of events, India Women are surrounded by troubled waters as they are yet to book a birth to the semi-finals of the Women's T20 World Cup 2024. After narrowly missing out on the opportunity, Harmanpreet Kaur and co now look to Pakistan team to help them.

India's Heartbreaking Loss To Australia

In a nail-biting encounter, India Women fell short by nine runs against Australia Women, missing the chance to qualify for the semi-finals of the ICC Women's T20 World Cup 2024. Chasing 152, India struggled early, losing key wickets, including Smriti Mandhana and Jemimah Rodrigues. 

Skipper Harmanpreet Kaur fought valiantly, scoring an unbeaten 54, but lacked support as the team lost crucial wickets, including a run-out that shifted momentum. With 14 runs needed from the last over, Annabel Sutherland bowled brilliantly, conceding only four runs and claiming vital wickets. India ended their innings at 142/9, leaving them to rely on other results to determine their fate in the tournament, while Australia extended their unbeaten streak to 15 matches.

How Can India Still Qualify For WC Semi Finals?

According to the qualification scenario, India still hold the second spot in the T20 WC points table with four points after two wins and two losses. In order to qualify and join already qualified table toppers, Australia Women, India hopes that their arch-rivals Pakistan beat New Zealand.

In this attempt, Women In Blue would hope that Pakistan do not surpass their net run-rate. If this happens, then India can still qualify for the semi-finals based on a better NRR.

Harmanpreet On The Horrific Nine Run Loss

The Indian captain expressed that the team felt confident in their ability to chase the target but missed crucial opportunities while batting. She acknowledged Australia’s experience and expressed hope for another chance to compete and said:

"We assessed the conditions really well. We knew we can chase it. When I and Deepti were batting, we couldn't capitalize on some loose balls. They are an experienced side and we have to learn from them. Whatever was in our hand, we have done it. If we get the opportunity to play another game, that will be great. Or else whoever deserves to be there will be there."

Meanwhile, Pakistan will lock horns with New Zealand at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium in Dubai on 14 October, Monday.