Birmingham 7 August : India women’s cricket team captain Harmanpreet Kaur and her team-mates continued to believe in themselves , even when England appeared to be in an unbeatable position with two of good partnerships.The day after defeating the hosts by only four runs in an epic semifinal match to set the stage for a gold medal match against Australia, Harmanpreet said her team fought until the goal was reached.
India was able to hold 164, holding Nat Sciver-led England to 160/6, eking out a narrow win.
“Until the very last moment we believed we could beat them despite the fact that they had several of strong alliances,” Harmanpreet said after the historic victory.
“Even when things were going well, not one was able to give up.The team has been working on this issue for a long time.If you continue doing this, the results will show at some point I’m pleased that it’s happening the results now,” the skipper was quoted by ICC.
In a tough-fought match that came to the last over India stood their ground and defended 14 runs in the final over to secure a place in the gold medal game.
“It was a crucial match.It’s great everyone was able to fulfill their roles with the ball, bat as well as on the field.It is crucial that everyone of players remain together in these games.In the final over, you can notice our quick fielders taking the responsibility of playing in the middle.This shows how committed you are to perform for the team.”
Despite it being a team effort that was all-out vice-captain Smrithi Mandhana was the standout player and made an impact on the game between both teams.The southpaw hammered England bowlers during the powerplay, slamming the most powerful T20I fifty (in 23 balls) by an Indian women’s player , beating her record of 24 balls.
Harmanpreet told reporters that India had a firm plan to make a splash in the powerplay.
“We were not ready to lose one wicket however, we needed to use the initial six overs of new wickets,” she said.
“The manner in which Smriti batted was amazing to observe.We were hoping at over 150.When playing games like this, it is important to have (a large) number across the board.
“Smriti is a player who is determined to be a success for the team at all times.The innings we played in energized us and when an body language of the opponent is not in the best place we can make the most of those moments.
Also the manner in which Jemi (Jemimah Rodrigues who scored unbeaten 44 off just 31 balls) batted was exceptional.We needed someone who could complete and it was fantastic to see that she was there until the final ball.” said the captain.
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