In a nail-biting contest between India Women and Australia Women in the Women’s T20 World Cup 2024, Australia emerged victorious by a narrow margin of 9 runs. One of the pivotal moments came in the 17th over of the second innings when Australia’s Phoebe Litchfield produced a brilliant run-out, dismissing India’s Richa Ghosh, further tipping the balance in Australia’s favour. With this win, Australia became the first team to secure a spot in the semifinals of the ongoing tournament.

Richa Ghosh’s run-out by Phoebe Litchfield

During Megan Schutt’s over, Litchfield delivered a game-changing moment with a pinpoint direct hit that brought Richa Ghosh’s innings to a sudden halt, significantly denting India’s chances. Ghosh had tapped the ball toward the cover-point region and quickly set off for a risky single. However, Litchfield, positioned perfectly in the field, had just one stump in her sight but showed exceptional accuracy and composure. She fired a precise throw that hit the target, catching Ghosh short of the crease. With Ghosh managing just 1 run from 3 balls, this critical run-out swung the momentum firmly in Australia’s favor and put India under immense pressure.

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Following her brilliant run-out of Ghosh, Litchfield delivered another standout moment in the field, this time teaming up with Australian bowler Annabel Sutherland to dismiss Arundhati Reddy. Litchfield’s sharp awareness and quick reflexes were on full display as she executed a flawless throw, catching Reddy short of her crease. This second run-out intensified the pressure on the Indian batting lineup, further derailing their chase. Litchfield’s exceptional fielding proved to be a pivotal factor in Australia’s defensive strategy, contributing significantly to their hard-fought victory.

Also READ: Women’s T20 World Cup 2024: Harmanpreet Kaur’s effort in vain as India lose a thriller against Australia

India falls short in chase despite Harmanpreet Kaur’s heroics

Batting first, Australia posted a competitive total of 151/8 in their allotted 20 overs. Grace Harris, opening the innings, was the top scorer for the Australians, contributing 40 runs off 41 balls, including five boundaries. Renuka Singh was the standout performer for India, claiming 2 wickets for 24 runs in her 4-over spell.

In response, India put up a valiant fight, but could only manage 142/9 in their 20 overs, falling short by just 9 runs. Indian captain Harmanpreet Kaur was the star with the bat, scoring 54 runs off 47 balls, including six boundaries. However, her efforts weren’t enough to secure the win, as Australia’s bowlers kept applying pressure throughout the innings.

Australia’s Sophie Molineux was named Player of the Match for her stellar bowling performance. In her 4-over spell, she took 2 key wickets, helping Australia defend their total and secure a semifinal berth in the tournament.

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

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