Women’s T20 World Cup: IND vs NZ Review – Mair and Tahuhu derail India’s chase

New Zealand secured a comprehensive victory over India, winning by 58 runs. New Zealand batted first and posted an imposing total of 160/4, thanks to a strong start from openers Suzie Bates (27) and Georgia Plimmer (34). Captain Sophie Devine anchored the innings with a match-winning knock of 57* off 36 balls. In response, India’s top order struggled, losing early wickets and failing to build partnerships, ultimately being bowled out for 102. India’s chase was derailed by disciplined bowling from New Zealand, with Rosemary Mair (4/19) and Lea Tahuhu (3/15) playing key roles.

New Zealand’s bowlers were relentless, starting with Eden Carson, who dismissed both Indian openers—Shafali Verma and Smriti Mandhana—early in the innings. From there, Rosemary Mair’s fiery spell sealed India’s fate, as she claimed crucial middle-order wickets, including the prized scalp of Harmanpreet Kaur. Lea Tahuhu also contributed, picking up three wickets to ensure India’s collapse. The Kiwi bowlers’ ability to maintain pressure throughout the innings left India with no chance to recover.

Top Performers:

Sophie Devine (New Zealand): Devine’s unbeaten 57 off 36 balls was the cornerstone of New Zealand’s innings. Coming in after a solid start by the openers, she maintained a brisk scoring rate and found boundaries regularly to ensure New Zealand set a formidable target. Her captaincy in the field was equally impressive, managing her bowlers effectively to restrict India’s chase.

Rosemary Mair (New Zealand): Mair was the standout bowler, returning figures of 4/19. Her precise bowling dismantled India’s middle order, including the key dismissal of Harmanpreet Kaur. Mair’s ability to strike at crucial moments made it nearly impossible for India to mount a serious challenge