Sharjah. Indian skipper Harmanpreet Kaur expressed disappointment at missing opportunities to take advantage of loose balls during her 63-run partnership with Deepti Sharma for the fourth wicket as her team faced Australia in a crucial match of the Women’s T20 World Cup. Had to face defeat against by 7 runs. After Sunday night’s narrow defeat, Harmanpreet’s side need Pakistan’s help to reach the semi-finals from Group A as defending champions Australia have officially qualified for the knockout stage of the tournament with the win. Thanks to Harmanpreet’s brilliant unbeaten inning of 54 runs, India came very close to a tournament-saving win over defending champions Australia. He again provided form for India as they chased 152 to win, and brought up his half-century, with 14 runs required in the final over. But Annabel Sutherland saw four wickets fall in the final over, including two run-outs, as India and Kaur missed the winning post. Speaking at the post-match presentation, Harmanpreet said Australia’s quality and depth led to victory on the day. “I think his whole team contributes; They are not dependent on one or two players, they have a lot of all-rounders who contribute. We also planned well and were present in the game. They did not give easy runs and made it difficult.
They are an experienced team. Harmanpreet identified two more reasons why their efforts were inadequate. In the middle overs, she and Deepti Sharma did not keep the scoring rate that high, which together restored India’s position in the match. Furthermore, at crucial moments of the match, Australia’s previous success came in handy as a valuable asset. “When Deepti and I were batting, we were not able to hit some of the loose balls. We can learn a lot from Australia. Whatever was in our hands, we were trying to do it, but it is not in our control. If we get a chance to play another match, it would be great. But otherwise, whichever team deserves to be there, will be there. Only a win by Pakistan over New Zealand on Monday will ensure India a top two finish in the group stage, but even then ‘net run rate’ may prevent India from making it to the knockouts. Harmanpreet said, “This is something which is not in your control, you always have to keep your playing eleven ready, even if one or two players are out. Radha bowled really well, she was in the game and she fielded well. You need a character in the team who is always there. This was a goal that was achievable.