New Delhi, February 16. In a thrilling encounter at Sydney, the Indian women’s cricket team stunned Australia in a T20 match on Sunday, showcasing their growing prowess on the global stage. Fast bowler Arundhati Reddy emerged as the star performer, claiming 4 wickets for just 22 runs in her 4 overs, dismantling the Australian batting lineup and bundling them out for 133 in 18 overs. This standout performance marks her best in T20 cricket.
Post-match, Reddy exuded confidence, declaring that the Indian team is now equipped to take on any opponent worldwide. ‘Over the past few years, we’ve been playing consistent cricket, and the belief within the team is stronger than ever. We no longer falter when victory is within reach,’ she stated emphatically.
Reddy singled out the dismissal of star batter Alyssa Healy as a game-changer, emphasizing the importance of early breakthroughs against key players. She also praised teammate Renuka Singh for her exceptional powerplay spell, which included a maiden over and three economical overs that set the tone.
Chasing 134, openers Smriti Mandhana and Shafali Verma provided a fiery start, racing to 33 runs in 4.1 overs for the first wicket. Shafali smashed 21 off 11 balls before departing, but by the 5.1 over mark, India had reached 50/1. Mandhana was unbeaten on 16 off 17, with Jemimah Rodrigues adding a quick 9 off 3.
Just as momentum swung India’s way, rain interrupted play. After a prolonged delay with no respite, umpires invoked the DLS method, awarding India a 21-run victory. This win underscores India’s evolution from nearly-men to champions, ready to dominate world cricket.