Women’s WC 2022: NZ-W vs IND-W Review – New Zealand outplay India

India Women’s horrendous run against New Zealand continues as they suffered a 62–run defeat in Match 8 of the ongoing Women’s World Cup 2022. It was an emphatic victory for the Sophie Devine-led side as the Women in Blue hardly look in the hunt. Although they did pretty well in restricting the Kiwis to 260/9 in their allotted 50 overs, the batters couldn’t make a significant mark. 

Earlier in the game, India Women won the toss and opted to bowl at the Seddon Park in Hamilton. While veteran opener Suzie Bates departed early, the likes of Sophie Devine, Amelia Kerr, Amy Satterthwaite and Katey Martin were among the runs. As Pooja Vastrakar jolted New Zealand’s lower order with a four-wicket haul, the hosts were restricted to 260/9.

In reply, India lost wickets at regular intervals and never really got going. The likes of Lea Tahuhu and Amelia Kerr did a fine job with the ball and took three wickets apiece. While Harmanpreet Kaur did score a fighting 71, her efforts could only narrow down the margin of defeat. As a result, India were bundled out for 198, losing the contest by 62 runs. 

Top Performers:

Harmanpreet Kaur – India        

As mentioned above, Indian batters endured a hard time in the game. However, Harmanpreet Kaur didn’t put her guards down and played a remarkable knock. Coming to bat at number five, the veteran batter was watchful early on and shifted gears after getting settled. The 33-year-old played some delightful shots all over the park and scored 71 off just 63 deliveries. Unfortunately for the Women in Blue, her efforts went in vain.

Amelia Kerr – New Zealand

Amelia Kerr was at her all-round best in the game as she gave Team India a hard time. Coming to bat at number three, Amelia joined forces with skipper Sophie Devine and steadied the ship for New Zealand. The 21-year-old slammed a brilliant 50 as the White Ferns posted a substantial score. If that’s not enough, the leg-spinner also scalped three wickets with the ball.

Key Stats:

39 – With 39 scalps, Jhulan Goswami is now the joint-highest wicket-taker in Women’s World Cups. She shares the record with Australia’s Lyn Fullstone.

2 – Lee Tahuhu (89) went past Nicola Brown to become New Zealand’s second-highest wicket-taker in Women ODIs.

What’s next?

Team India, who defeated Pakistan by 107 runs in their opening fixture, would like to get back on track in their next assignment against West Indies on March 12. On the other hand, the Kiwis would like to continue their winning run as they meet Australia in their next fixture on March 13.