In the 4th match of the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2024 between India Women and New Zealand Women, the highlight of the match wasn’t just the dominant performance by the New Zealand bowlers but also a unique moment of celebration by pacer Lea Tahuhu. During the 11th over of the first innings, Tahuhu dismissed Richa Ghosh, which led to a heartfelt and memorable celebration.

Lea Tahuhu’s heartfelt celebration

In the crucial 11th over, New Zealand’s experienced fast bowler, Tahuhu sent India’s wicketkeeper-batter Richa Ghosh packing with a simple catch taken by Sophie Devine at mid-off. Ghosh, clearly frustrated, swung her bat in disappointment as she made her way back to the pavilion. The ball, delivered back of a length on middle stump, got a thick leading edge as Ghosh tried to work it to the on-side. The ball ballooned up, and Devine comfortably took the catch. Ghosh departed after scoring 12 runs off 19 deliveries, leaving India in a precarious position at 5 wickets down.

While the dismissal itself was a key moment, Tahuhu’s celebration stole the show. After taking the wicket, Tahuhu made the shape of a heart with her hands, a gesture that resonated with the spectators. It was later revealed during the post-match presentation that the celebration had a special meaning. New Zealand captain Devine shared, “This celebration of Tahuhu was dedicated to her children, her daughters Grace Marie Satterthwaite and her son Louie Andrew Satterthwaite.” The heart-shaped gesture was a beautiful nod to her family, showcasing Tahuhu’s joy and love for her children while excelling on the global stage.

Here is the video:

Tahuhu’s emotional celebration was backed by a stellar performance with the ball. The pacer was at her economical best, delivering 4 overs, taking 3 wickets, and conceding just 15 runs at a remarkable economy rate of 3.80. Her bowling spell was pivotal in keeping the Indian batters in check and setting up New Zealand’s comprehensive victory. Tahuhu’s performance ensured that New Zealand held a firm grip on the game throughout.

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New Zealand’s dominant victory

Batting first, New Zealand posted a competitive total of 160/4 in their allotted 20 overs. The skipper Devine led from the front with a brilliant half-century, which was instrumental in laying a solid foundation for the team. Devine’s knock, along with key contributions from the middle order, allowed New Zealand to put up a challenging target of 161 for the Indian side.

India, in response, faltered in their chase, managing only 102 runs before being bowled out in 19 overs. The New Zealand bowling attack, led by Tahuhu and Rosemary Mair, proved too hot to handle for the Indian batters. Mair, in particular, was exceptional, claiming 4 wickets in her 4-over spell, further dismantling India’s batting lineup. The Indian team struggled to build partnerships, and the frequent loss of wickets ensured they never gained momentum in the chase.

New Zealand Women secured a convincing 58-run victory, their bowlers playing a crucial role in defending the total. This win was a result of an all-round team effort, with both batters and bowlers contributing to the success. Skipper Devine, for her match-winning half-century in the first innings and her leadership throughout the game, was named the Player of the Match.

Also READ: Sophie Devine, Rosemary Mair shine as New Zealand crush India in Women’s T20 World Cup 2024

This article was first published at WomenCricket.com, a Cricket Times company.

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