By Madhurima Ghosh –
With India losing the last match against South Africa on 27th march at Hagley Oval, India misses their opportunity to hit the semi-finals for Women cricket World Cup 2022.
ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup 2022 hosted by New Zealand, started on 4th March with 8 teams in ODI (one day international) format. At the end of 24 days, 4 teams namely Australia, South Africa, England and West Indies, made to the top 4 in the points table and consequently qualified for the semi-finals. The Finals will be played between Australia and England on Sunday, 3rd April at Hagley Oval, Christchurch, New Zealand.
Out of the seven international games played, India celebrated their victory against Pakistan, West Indies and Bangladesh, The last match of the league was India vs South Africa which was supposed to determine India’s entry for the semi-finals. Unfortunately, India’s defeat in this game eliminated them from the World Cup campaign making way for West Indies into the semi-finals.
Highlights of the Last Game – India vs South Africa
- India scored 274/7 in 50 overs
- South Africa made 275/7 in 50 overs
- Captain Mithali Raj, Shafali Verma and Smriti Mandhana gained more than half centuries each
- Harmanpreet Kaur took 2 wickets and 3 run outs along with making 48 runs. She stood out to be the all-rounder
- Jhulan Goswami, the veteran player was not part of the game due to side strain inflicted during her training.
- South Africa stood firm for 129 runs up to 2nd wicket after which India started taking wickets giving hope for India’s win
- On the last ball, with 3 runs left to win for South Africa, came the final twist when Harmanpreet Kaur took a brilliant catch that was bowled by Deepti Sharma, knocking Mignon Du Preez out. However India’s rejoice soon turned into devastation when third umpire declared it a “no-ball”. This changed the game in favor of South Africa.
ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup 2022 turned to be out of luck for India. After all the hard work of the players and patience of the spectators, such an end is truly unpleasant for everyone. However the journey made by Indian Women cricket team so far is commendable and we wish them all the best for their future endeavor. Also good luck to the four semi-finalist teams for their tournaments ahead.
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