India delivered a masterful performance to defeat arch-rivals Pakistan by six wickets in their second match at the ICC Women's T20 World Cup at Dubai International Cricket Stadium on Sunday.
Supported by a passionate crowd that overwhelmingly favored the Indian team, India restricted Pakistan to 105 for eight in 20 overs, largely due to an outstanding spell from medium pacer Arundhati Reddy (4-0-19-3). Reddy received strong backing from Shreyanka Patil, who claimed two wickets for 12 runs in four overs.
In response, India achieved the target in the 19th over, losing four wickets. Opener Shafali Verma led the charge with 32 runs, while skipper Harmanpreet Kaur contributed 29 before retiring hurt. Despite the sweltering afternoon heat, 20,000 fans attended to witness the first India-Pakistan clash in women's cricket in the UAE.
With this impressive victory, India has re-entered the race for a semifinal spot following their unexpected loss to New Zealand in their opening Group A game on Friday. Pakistan, who secured their first win against Sri Lanka on Thursday, now face a daunting challenge against six-time champions Australia in their next game on Friday at the same venue.
India, meanwhile, will look to avenge their earlier defeat when they face Sri Lanka in their next match, having lost to them in the Asia Cup final earlier this year.
