India Sets Competitive Target Against Australia in Women's T20 World Cup 2026

In a crucial match at the ICC Women's T20 World Cup 2026, India, led by Captain Harmanpreet Kaur, set a competitive target of 170 runs against Australia. The openers, Smriti Mandhana and Shafali Verma, provided a solid start, while Kaur's explosive finish ensured a strong total. With this victory, India aims to secure a place in the semi-finals, making this match a significant milestone in their World Cup campaign.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jun 28, 2026, 21:49 IST

Captain Kaur's Leadership Shines

In a crucial Group A match of the ICC Women's T20 World Cup 2026 held at Lord's on Sunday, Captain Harmanpreet Kaur showcased her leadership with a powerful half-century. India managed to score a formidable 170 runs for the loss of 4 wickets against Australia.

Promising Start from Indian Openers

After winning the toss, Harmanpreet opted to bat first on a pitch favorable for batting, knowing a win was essential for their semi-final aspirations. Openers Smriti Mandhana (38 runs) and Shafali Verma (34 runs) provided a strong start, capitalizing on the Powerplay with aggressive batting and swift running. By the end of the sixth over, India had reached 43 runs without losing a wicket.

Shafali demonstrated her form early on, hitting a six off Ash Gardner, while Mandhana supported her well. Despite Australia breaking the opening partnership in the ninth over with Sophie Molineux's wicket, India had already set a solid foundation at 74 runs for 1 wicket after 10 overs. Unfortunately, Mandhana was run out in the 12th over.

Kaur and Rodrigues Stabilize the Innings

Following Mandhana's dismissal, Harmanpreet joined Jemimah Rodrigues at the crease. Together, they stabilized the innings, gradually increasing the scoring rate. The pair effectively rotated the strike, capitalizing on loose deliveries while ensuring that wickets did not fall in quick succession against a disciplined Australian bowling attack.

Their partnership was a blend of caution and aggression, keeping the scoreboard ticking at over seven runs per over, leading India to 147 runs for 2 wickets by the end of the 19th over.

Kaur's Explosive Finish Boosts India's Total

Rodrigues, who had scored 34 runs off 28 balls, was unfortunately retired hurt. In a thrilling finish, Harmanpreet launched three consecutive sixes in the final over before being dismissed on the second last ball, finishing with an impressive 56 runs off just 27 balls, which included six fours and three sixes. New batter Deepti Sharma managed to hit a four on her only delivery, contributing to a remarkable 23 runs in the last over, bringing India's total to 170 runs for 4 wickets in 20 overs.

This match is pivotal for India's World Cup journey, especially after South Africa's earlier victory over Bangladesh. A win against the unbeaten Australians would secure India's spot in the semi-finals.