Harmanpreet Kaur Reflects on Missed Opportunities After India's Loss to South Africa

In a disappointing match at the 2026 Women’s T20 World Cup, India Women’s captain Harmanpreet Kaur expressed regret over missed opportunities that led to a six-wicket loss against South Africa. Despite strong bowling performances, crucial dropped catches proved costly. Kaur emphasized the importance of maintaining a positive mindset and learning from the defeat as the team prepares for upcoming matches against Bangladesh and Australia. The match showcased Marizanne Kapp's outstanding performance, both with bat and ball, leading South Africa to a historic victory.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jun 22, 2026, 05:53 IST

India Women Face Setback in T20 World Cup

Manchester [UK], June 22: Following a six-wicket defeat to South Africa in the 2026 Women’s T20 World Cup, Indian captain Harmanpreet Kaur expressed disappointment over the team's inability to seize crucial chances in the field.

While defending a total of 158/7, India struggled in the field, notably missing a catch from Tazmin Brits when she was on 18 and allowing Marizanne Kapp two chances at 25 and 65, courtesy of substitute fielder Radha Yadav. Kapp capitalized on these opportunities, finishing with an unbeaten 81, leading South Africa to victory and marking India's first loss in the tournament.

In her post-match comments, Harmanpreet acknowledged that the dropped catches were detrimental, as the team failed to make the most of key moments. She commended the bowling performances of Shree Charani and Shafali Verma but lamented the lack of support from the fielders.

“We had a few chances but couldn’t convert them. We have two matches left, and it’s crucial to remain positive. Shree Charani and Shafali bowled well, but the fielding let us down. At this level, we must capitalize on opportunities. We weren’t fortunate today. We’ll reflect on this and consider necessary changes,” she stated.

Harmanpreet emphasized that the defeat provided valuable lessons and highlighted the need for a positive mindset moving forward. “There are many lessons to take away, and I need to stay strong. Now is the time to focus on what we can improve for the upcoming matches. I hope we perform better in the next games,” she added.

India's next challenge will be against Bangladesh on June 25, followed by a match against Australia on June 28.

In the match itself, Marizanne Kapp was instrumental for South Africa, taking 2/27 to restrict India to 158/7 before scoring an unbeaten 81 to lead her team to 161/4 in just 19.1 overs.

India started strong with contributions from Smriti Mandhana and Shafali Verma, but lost wickets at regular intervals. Shafali was the top scorer with 31 runs, while Deepti Sharma added 29 and captain Harmanpreet Kaur scored 24 in her 200th T20I match.

South Africa initially struggled at 25/2 due to a brilliant spell from Sree Charani, but Kapp and Tazmin Brits (40) combined for a 97-run partnership to turn the game around. Kapp then sealed the victory, helping South Africa achieve their highest successful chase in Women’s T20 World Cup history and handing India their first defeat of the tournament. This win elevated South Africa to third place in Group A, while India remained in second position.