After winning the three T20Is, 2-1, Harmanpreet Kaur-led India women have started the ODI leg with a win at the iconic Pallekele International Stadium, Pallekele on Friday (July 01). It was a low-scoring affair where the Islanders pushed India a bit, during the run-chase, before Deepti Sharma's all-round blitz took the team past the finish line.

Opting to bat first, the&nbsp;Chamari Athapaththu-led Islanders weren't off to a great start and lost half of their side for 84.&nbsp;Nilakshi de Silva's 43 and Harshitha Madavi's 28 managed to propel the Sri Lankans past the 150-run mark. Eventually, the hosts managed only 171 all-out in 48.2 overs.&nbsp;Deepti and Renuka Singh shared three scalps each whereas fast-bowling all-rounder Pooja Vastrakar returned with 2 for 26.&nbsp;

In reply, India lost opener Smriti Mandhara early (4) and Yastika Bhatia (1) also followed suit. Shafali Verma's 40-ball 35 took India ahead before they were reduced to 61 for 3 as the chase became tricky. Skipper Harmanpreet (44), Harleen Deol (34) and Deepti's 22 rescued India as they were on course to chase down the paltry total.&nbsp;Inoka Ranaweera's 4 for 39 and&nbsp;Oshadi Ranasinghe's 2 for 34 stretched India in the second innings but the lack of runs cost the Lankans. Eventually, India chased down the total in 38 overs (176/6).

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/will-virat-kohli-end-his-century-drought-in-one-off-test-vs-england-former-indian-opener-gives-his-verdict-493594">Will Virat Kohli end his century-drought in one-off Test vs England? Former Indian opener gives his verdict</a>

In the post-match presentation, Deepti said, "I can bat at every number. We need to focus on partnerships and that's we did. It is not an easy wicket to bat on. We need to watch till the end. Pooja is a hard hitter. She did well."

<p ng-bind-html="comm[ts].comm" ng-class="get_comm_class(comm[ts]) " ng-hide="comm[ts].geo != null &amp;&amp; comm[ts].geo.length &gt; 0 &amp;&amp; comm[ts].geo.indexOf($root.$GEO.country) == -1" ng-if="comm[ts].evt != 'Plugin:news' &amp;&amp; comm[ts].evt != 'Plugin:video' &amp;&amp; comm[ts].evt != 'Plugin:comments'">Meanwhile, Harmanpreet opined, "Enjoying myself. When you keep getting runs, you feel you are in good form. We need to work on the partnerships. We will look to do well. I love to give chances. Harleen bowled well. So did Shafali. Would hope they do well in future as well. The Lankan bowlers didn't give us easy runs."

After winning the three T20Is, 2-1, Harmanpreet Kaur-led India women have started the ODI leg with a win at the iconic Pallekele International Stadium, Pallekele on Friday (July 01).

After winning the three T20Is, 2-1, Harmanpreet Kaur-led India women have started the ODI leg with a win at the iconic Pallekele International Stadium, Pallekele on Friday (July 01). It was a low-scoring affair where the Islanders pushed India a bit, during the run-chase, before Deepti Sharma's all-round blitz took the team past the finish line. Opting to bat first, the Chamari Athapaththu-led Islanders weren't off to a great start and lost half of their side for 84. Nilakshi de Silva's 43 and Harshitha Madavi's 28 managed to propel the Sri Lankans past the 150-run mark. Eventually, the hosts managed only 171 all-out in 48.2 overs. Deepti and Renuka Singh shared three scalps each whereas fast-bowling all-rounder Pooja Vastrakar returned with 2 for 26. In reply, India lost opener Smriti Mandhara early (4) and Yastika Bhatia (1) also followed suit. Shafali Verma's 40-ball 35 took India ahead before they were reduced to 61 for 3 as the chase became tricky. Skipper Harmanpreet (44), Harleen Deol (34) and Deepti's 22 rescued India as they were on course to chase down the paltry total. Inoka Ranaweera's 4 for 39 and Oshadi Ranasinghe's 2 for 34 stretched India in the second innings but the lack of runs cost the Lankans. Eventually, India chased down the total in 38 overs (176/6). ALSO READ | Will Virat Kohli end his century-drought in one-off Test vs England? Former Indian opener gives his verdict In the post-match presentation, Deepti said, "I can bat at every number. We need to focus on partnerships and that's we did. It is not an easy wicket to bat on. We need to watch till the end. Pooja is a hard hitter. She did well." Meanwhile, Harmanpreet opined, "Enjoying myself. When you keep getting runs, you feel you are in good form. We need to work on the partnerships. We will look to do well. I love to give chances. Harleen bowled well. So did Shafali. Would hope they do well in future as well. The Lankan bowlers didn't give us easy runs."

SL-W vs IND-W: Deepti Sharma's all-round blitz takes India to 4-wicket win over Islanders in 1st ODI

Trailblazers defeated Velocity by 16 runs in a Women's T20 Challenge match here on Thursday. Trailblazers posted a challenging 190 for five after being sent into bat. Sabbhineni Meghana top-scored with 73 off 47 balls, while Jemimah Rodrigues made a 44-ball 66. Simran Bahadur picked up two wickets for 31 runs in three overs for Velocity. Chasing, Velocity were restricted to 174 for nine. Kiran Prabhu Navgire top-scored for Velocity with a 34-ball 69. Poonam Yadav (2/33) and Rajeshwari Gayakwad (2/44) picked up two wickets apiece for Trailblazers.

At the post-match presentation, Deepti said, "Excited to be in the finals. The way we played as a team in both innings was extraordinary. In the second half we did well, because the Kiran batted was nothing short of extraordinary. It was fun watching her bat from the sidelines. We set our batting order keeping the target in mind. We gave 25-30 runs extra because of fielding and hopefully we will make a comeback in the next game."

Brief Scores: 
Trailblazers: 190 for 5 in 20 overs (Sabbhineni Meghana 73, Jemimah Rodrigues 66; Simran Bahadur 2/31). 
Velocity: 174 for 9 in 20 overs (Kiran Prabhu Navgire 69; Poonam Yadav 2/33,

Trailblazers defeated Velocity by 16 runs in a Women's T20 Challenge match here on Thursday. Trailblazers posted a challenging 190 for five after being sent into bat.

Trailblazers defeated Velocity by 16 runs in a Women's T20 Challenge match here on Thursday. Trailblazers posted a challenging 190 for five after being sent into bat. Sabbhineni Meghana top-scored with 73 off 47 balls, while Jemimah Rodrigues made a 44-ball 66. Simran Bahadur picked up two wickets for 31 runs in three overs for Velocity. Chasing, Velocity were restricted to 174 for nine. Kiran Prabhu Navgire top-scored for Velocity with a 34-ball 69. Poonam Yadav (2/33) and Rajeshwari Gayakwad (2/44) picked up two wickets apiece for Trailblazers. At the post-match presentation, Deepti said, "Excited to be in the finals. The way we played as a team in both innings was extraordinary. In the second half we did well, because the Kiran batted was nothing short of extraordinary. It was fun watching her bat from the sidelines. We set our batting order keeping the target in mind. We gave 25-30 runs extra because of fielding and hopefully we will make a comeback in the next game." Brief Scores: Trailblazers: 190 for 5 in 20 overs (Sabbhineni Meghana 73, Jemimah Rodrigues 66; Simran Bahadur 2/31). Velocity: 174 for 9 in 20 overs (Kiran Prabhu Navgire 69; Poonam Yadav 2/33,

Women's T20 Challenge: Velocity through to the final despite 16-run loss to Trailblazers

The third and penultimate game of the Women's T20 Challenge will see the Smriti Mandhana-led Supernovas lock horns with&nbsp;Deepti Sharma's Velocity, at the&nbsp;Maharashtra Cricket Association Stadium, Pune on Thursday evening (May 26).

After Harmanpreet Kaur-led Supernovas won the opening game, beating Smriti Mandhana &amp; Co. convincingly by 49 runs,&nbsp;Velocity got the better of the former by seven wickets as the third and penultimate tie now is a must-win clash for Mandhana-led Trailblazers.&nbsp;

With Velocity's NRR&nbsp;+0.736, they just need to ensure they do not lose by a huge margin to reach the final and setup a rematch of the 2019 edition's summit clash, versus the Supernovas who have made it to the last fixture on the fourth successive occasion. Thus, Mandhana-led Trailblazers need their key players to stand tall after a stunning collapse in their first encounter.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/shafali-verma-laura-wolvaardt-dazzle-as-velocity-thrash-supernovas-by-7-wickets-in-womens-t20-challenge-481841">Shafali Verma, Laura Wolvaardt dazzle as Velocity thrash Supernovas by 7 wickets in Women's T20 Challenge</a>

Velocity’s likely playing 11 against Trailblazers: Shafali Verma, Laura Wolvaardt, Yastika Bhatia (wk), Natthakan Chantham, Deepti Sharma (c), Kiran Navgire, Sneh Rana, Radha Yadav, Kate Cross, Ayabonga Khaka, Maya Sonawane

Trailblazers’ likely playing 11 against Velocity: Smriti Mandhana (c), Hayley Matthews, Sophia Dunkley, Jemimah Rodrigues, Sharmin Akhter, Salma Khatun, Richa Ghosh (wk), Arundhati Reddy, Poonam Yadav, Rajeshwari Gayakwad, Renuka Singh

Squads:

Velocity: Shafali Verma, Natthakan Chantham, Yastika Bhatia(w), Laura Wolvaardt, Deepti Sharma(c), Kiran Navgire, Sneh Rana, Radha Yadav, Kate Cross, Ayabonga Khaka, Maya Sonawane, Keerthi James, Shivali Shinde, Simran Bahadur, Aarti Kedar, Pranavi Chandra

Trailblazers: Smriti Mandhana(c), Hayley Matthews, Jemimah Rodrigues, Sophia Dunkley, Sharmin Akhter, Richa Ghosh(w), Arundhati Reddy, Salma Khatun, Poonam Yadav, Renuka Singh, Rajeshwari Gayakwad, Sabbhineni Meghana, Priyanka Priyadarshini, Saika Ishaque, Shradda Bhau Pokharkar, Sujata Mallik

The third and penultimate game of the Women's T20 Challenge will see the Smriti Mandhana-led Supernovas lock horns with Deepti Sharma's Velocity, at the Maharashtra Cricket Association Stadium, Pune on Thursday evening (May 26).

The third and penultimate game of the Women's T20 Challenge will see the Smriti Mandhana-led Supernovas lock horns with Deepti Sharma's Velocity, at the Maharashtra Cricket Association Stadium, Pune on Thursday evening (May 26). After Harmanpreet Kaur-led Supernovas won the opening game, beating Smriti Mandhana & Co. convincingly by 49 runs, Velocity got the better of the former by seven wickets as the third and penultimate tie now is a must-win clash for Mandhana-led Trailblazers. With Velocity's NRR +0.736, they just need to ensure they do not lose by a huge margin to reach the final and setup a rematch of the 2019 edition's summit clash, versus the Supernovas who have made it to the last fixture on the fourth successive occasion. Thus, Mandhana-led Trailblazers need their key players to stand tall after a stunning collapse in their first encounter. ALSO READ | Shafali Verma, Laura Wolvaardt dazzle as Velocity thrash Supernovas by 7 wickets in Women's T20 Challenge Velocity’s likely playing 11 against Trailblazers: Shafali Verma, Laura Wolvaardt, Yastika Bhatia (wk), Natthakan Chantham, Deepti Sharma (c), Kiran Navgire, Sneh Rana, Radha Yadav, Kate Cross, Ayabonga Khaka, Maya Sonawane Trailblazers’ likely playing 11 against Velocity: Smriti Mandhana (c), Hayley Matthews, Sophia Dunkley, Jemimah Rodrigues, Sharmin Akhter, Salma Khatun, Richa Ghosh (wk), Arundhati Reddy, Poonam Yadav, Rajeshwari Gayakwad, Renuka Singh Squads: Velocity: Shafali Verma, Natthakan Chantham, Yastika Bhatia(w), Laura Wolvaardt, Deepti Sharma(c), Kiran Navgire, Sneh Rana, Radha Yadav, Kate Cross, Ayabonga Khaka, Maya Sonawane, Keerthi James, Shivali Shinde, Simran Bahadur, Aarti Kedar, Pranavi Chandra Trailblazers: Smriti Mandhana(c), Hayley Matthews, Jemimah Rodrigues, Sophia Dunkley, Sharmin Akhter, Richa Ghosh(w), Arundhati Reddy, Salma Khatun, Poonam Yadav, Renuka Singh, Rajeshwari Gayakwad, Sabbhineni Meghana, Priyanka Priyadarshini, Saika Ishaque, Shradda Bhau Pokharkar, Sujata Mallik

TRA vs SUP, Women's T20 Challenge 2022 prediction today: Who will win Velocity vs Trailblazers match?

On Sunday (March 27), the Mithali Raj-led Indian team bowed out of the ICC Women's World Cup in New Zealand. Playing South Africa in a must-win game, i.e. their last league stage encounter, for a place in the semi-finals, the Indian eves gave their all but ended on the losing side on the last ball by the barest of margins.

Opting to bat first at Hagley Oval, Christchurch, India rode on a perfect 91-run opening stand between half-centurions Shefali Verma and Smriti Mandhana. After losing two quick wickets, India posted 274 for 7 courtesy Mithali's 68 and vice-captain Harmanpreet Kaur's 48. In reply, South Africa chased it down with three wickets to spare courtesy Laura Wolvaardt's 80, Lara Goodall's 49 and an unbeaten 52 from Mignon du Preez along with cameos from Marizanne Kapp and Chloe Tryon.&nbsp;

It was a riveting contest that went down to the wire as Deepti Sharma's last-over no-ball titled the equation in Proteas' favour. Nonetheless, India could have also scored a lot more than they did (less than 40 runs) in the last five overs whereas their fielding wasn't upto the mark during the crunch moments of the game.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2022-punjab-kings-pull-off-sensational-run-chase-to-beat-royal-challengers-bangalore-466112">Laura Wolvaardt's 80, Lara Goodall's 49 and an unbeaten 52 from Mignon du Preez along with cameos from Marizanne Kapp and Chloe Tryon</a>

After a disappointing end to the World Cup campaign, Mithali &amp; Co. bowed out as the fifth-ranked side, winning three and losing four encounters. Post the heartbreaking defeat, India's former captain Virat Kohli shared a heartfelt message for the Indian eves.

Kohli tweeted saying, "Always tough to bow out of a tournament you aim to win but our women's team can hold their heads high. You gave it your all and we are proud of you."

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Always tough to bow out of a tournament you aim to win but our women's team can hold their heads high. You gave it your all and we are proud of you. 🙏🏻🇮🇳
— Virat Kohli (@imVkohli) <a href="https://twitter.com/imVkohli/status/1508307852229718018?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 28, 2022</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/mithali-raj-reacts-to-retirement-rumours-after-womens-wc-2022-elimination-466067">Mithali Raj reacts to retirement rumours after Women's WC 2022 elimination</a>

At the post-match presenstation, skipper Mithali pointed out, "I personally feel the girls gave it all, it was an important game, was a good game, it ended our campaign, but I'm proud of the girls for coming so far. With the bowlers we had, I thought 275 was a good total, we had defended similar totals in the past. Her experience (on missing Jhulan Goswami) would have added a lot, but this was an exposure for the other girls to step up. Everything should come to an end, it'll take time to settle the emotions, but that is sport. Thanks to everyone who turned out for every Indian game, it was nice to hear your cheers and keep supporting the girls and the Indian women's team in the future."

Talking about Kohli, he is currently involved in IPL 2022, playing for the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB). The Faf du Plessis-led side lost their season-opener to Punjab Kings (PBKS) by five wickets in a high-scoring encounter on Sunday evening, at the DY Patil Stadium, Mumbai.

On Sunday (March 27), the Mithali Raj-led Indian team bowed out of the ICC Women's World Cup in New Zealand. Playing South Africa in a must-win game, i.e. their last league stage encounter, for a place in the semi-finals, the Indian eves gave their all but ended on the losing side on the last ball by the barest of margins.

On Sunday (March 27), the Mithali Raj-led Indian team bowed out of the ICC Women's World Cup in New Zealand. Playing South Africa in a must-win game, i.e. their last league stage encounter, for a place in the semi-finals, the Indian eves gave their all but ended on the losing side on the last ball by the barest of margins. Opting to bat first at Hagley Oval, Christchurch, India rode on a perfect 91-run opening stand between half-centurions Shefali Verma and Smriti Mandhana. After losing two quick wickets, India posted 274 for 7 courtesy Mithali's 68 and vice-captain Harmanpreet Kaur's 48. In reply, South Africa chased it down with three wickets to spare courtesy Laura Wolvaardt's 80, Lara Goodall's 49 and an unbeaten 52 from Mignon du Preez along with cameos from Marizanne Kapp and Chloe Tryon. It was a riveting contest that went down to the wire as Deepti Sharma's last-over no-ball titled the equation in Proteas' favour. Nonetheless, India could have also scored a lot more than they did (less than 40 runs) in the last five overs whereas their fielding wasn't upto the mark during the crunch moments of the game. ALSO READ | Laura Wolvaardt's 80, Lara Goodall's 49 and an unbeaten 52 from Mignon du Preez along with cameos from Marizanne Kapp and Chloe Tryon After a disappointing end to the World Cup campaign, Mithali & Co. bowed out as the fifth-ranked side, winning three and losing four encounters. Post the heartbreaking defeat, India's former captain Virat Kohli shared a heartfelt message for the Indian eves. Kohli tweeted saying, "Always tough to bow out of a tournament you aim to win but our women's team can hold their heads high. You gave it your all and we are proud of you." Always tough to bow out of a tournament you aim to win but our women's team can hold their heads high. You gave it your all and we are proud of you. 🙏🏻🇮🇳 — Virat Kohli (@imVkohli) March 28, 2022 × ALSO READ | Mithali Raj reacts to retirement rumours after Women's WC 2022 elimination At the post-match presenstation, skipper Mithali pointed out, "I personally feel the girls gave it all, it was an important game, was a good game, it ended our campaign, but I'm proud of the girls for coming so far. With the bowlers we had, I thought 275 was a good total, we had defended similar totals in the past. Her experience (on missing Jhulan Goswami) would have added a lot, but this was an exposure for the other girls to step up. Everything should come to an end, it'll take time to settle the emotions, but that is sport. Thanks to everyone who turned out for every Indian game, it was nice to hear your cheers and keep supporting the girls and the Indian women's team in the future." Talking about Kohli, he is currently involved in IPL 2022, playing for the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB). The Faf du Plessis-led side lost their season-opener to Punjab Kings (PBKS) by five wickets in a high-scoring encounter on Sunday evening, at the DY Patil Stadium, Mumbai.

We are proud of you: Virat Kohli reacts after Mithali Raj-led India bow out of Women's World Cup

The Indian women’s cricket team crashed out of the ongoing World Cup competition on Sunday as they were defeated in a closely contested match against South Africa by three wickets. <o:p></o:p>

Following the defeat, skipper Mithali Raj was asked about her future with the team and the 39-year-old had a clear answer for the journalists during the virtual post-match press conference.<o:p></o:p>

"You've not given me even an hour to think about my future, to go through and process what has just happened today."

<o:p>Also read |&nbsp;</o:p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/it-wasnt-just-the-no-ball-virender-sehwag-reacts-to-indias-womens-wc-2022-heartbreak-465959" hreflang="en">'It wasn't just the no ball': Sehwag on India's Women's WC 2022 heartbreak</a><o:p></o:p>

"When you have a disappointment and in the campaign which ends like this in a World Cup where you've really prepared very hard over a year, it takes time to accept and then probably move on from there. Whatever the future holds for each and every player, so I've not really thought about my future," Mithali said according to PTI.<o:p></o:p>

Mithali has played six ODI World Cups for India till now.<o:p></o:p>

A crucial moment of the match came in the final over as Deepti Sharma dismissed Mignon du Preez but the third umpire said that it was a no-ball. Du Preez clinch the game with a boundary on the next ball.

<o:p>Also read |&nbsp;</o:p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/south-africa-beat-india-in-last-ball-thriller-as-mithali-raj-co-crash-out-of-womens-world-cup-2022-465912" hreflang="en">SA beat India in last-ball thriller to dump them out of Women's WC 2022</a><o:p></o:p>

Speaking about the last over, Mithali said, "Somewhere these no-balls have not been working in India's remember. I remember the game against Australia, there also it was the last over but I guess having Deepti as a batter and even as a bowler, she did not play in the last few ODIs but the way she bowled today was exceptional."<o:p></o:p>

"She brought all her experience of playing in India and overseas. Jhulan Goswami gets a lot of experience in the bowling department, but not having her and bringing in Deepti, the way she bowls in the limited-overs format. She had a clarity of how to bowl in the final over," she said as quoted by PTI. <o:p></o:p>

The Indian women’s cricket team crashed out of the ongoing World Cup competition on Sunday as they were defeated in a closely contested match against South Africa by three wickets.

The Indian women’s cricket team crashed out of the ongoing World Cup competition on Sunday as they were defeated in a closely contested match against South Africa by three wickets. Following the defeat, skipper Mithali Raj was asked about her future with the team and the 39-year-old had a clear answer for the journalists during the virtual post-match press conference. "You've not given me even an hour to think about my future, to go through and process what has just happened today." Also read | 'It wasn't just the no ball': Sehwag on India's Women's WC 2022 heartbreak "When you have a disappointment and in the campaign which ends like this in a World Cup where you've really prepared very hard over a year, it takes time to accept and then probably move on from there. Whatever the future holds for each and every player, so I've not really thought about my future," Mithali said according to PTI. Mithali has played six ODI World Cups for India till now. A crucial moment of the match came in the final over as Deepti Sharma dismissed Mignon du Preez but the third umpire said that it was a no-ball. Du Preez clinch the game with a boundary on the next ball. Also read | SA beat India in last-ball thriller to dump them out of Women's WC 2022 Speaking about the last over, Mithali said, "Somewhere these no-balls have not been working in India's remember. I remember the game against Australia, there also it was the last over but I guess having Deepti as a batter and even as a bowler, she did not play in the last few ODIs but the way she bowled today was exceptional." "She brought all her experience of playing in India and overseas. Jhulan Goswami gets a lot of experience in the bowling department, but not having her and bringing in Deepti, the way she bowls in the limited-overs format. She had a clarity of how to bowl in the final over," she said as quoted by PTI.

Mithali Raj reacts to retirement rumours after Women's WC 2022 elimination

It was a game of fine margins as a crucial no-ball call in the final over meant that India were eliminated from the 2022 Women’s World Cup after losing to South Africa. With 3 runs need from 2 balls, Deepti Sharma dismissed Mignon du Preez as Harmanpreet Kaur took the catch at long-off.<o:p></o:p>

However, the celebration was short lived as the third umpire confirmed that it was a no-ball and du Preez scored a boundary off the very next ball to end India’s dreams of reaching the knockout stage.

<o:p>Also read |&nbsp;</o:p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/south-africa-beat-india-in-last-ball-thriller-as-mithali-raj-co-crash-out-of-womens-world-cup-2022-465912">SA beat India in last-ball thriller to dump them out of Women's WC 2022</a><o:p></o:p>

Former India opener Virender Sehwag took to Twitter to console the Indian women’s cricket team after the defeat and said that sometimes ‘an inch costs moments that took a decade to achieve’.

<o:p></o:p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
It wasn't just the no ball which cost India the game today but sometimes an inch costs moments that takes decades to achieve and are possibly once in a lifetime achievement for many players. Disappointing end to India's campaign <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IndvSA?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IndvSA</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/cwc22?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#cwc22</a> <a href="https://t.co/2DzerovJD1">pic.twitter.com/2DzerovJD1</a>
— Virender Sehwag (@virendersehwag) <a href="https://twitter.com/virendersehwag/status/1508009659214434304?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 27, 2022</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

&nbsp;

<o:p></o:p>“It wasn't just the no ball which cost India the game today but sometimes an inch costs moments that takes decades to achieve and are possibly once in a lifetime achievement for many players. Disappointing end to India's campaign #IndvSA #cwc22,” Sehwag posted on his account.

<o:p>Also read |&nbsp;</o:p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ms-dhoni-scripts-unique-record-with-his-brilliant-fifty-against-kolkata-knight-riders-in-ipl-2022-opener-465870" hreflang="en">IPL 2022: MS Dhoni scripts unique record with brilliant fifty against KKR</a><o:p></o:p>

Batting first, India were able to post a total of 274 for the loss of seven wickets thanks to brilliant contributions from Smriti Mandhana and Shafali Verma who stitched together a 91-run partnership for the opening wicket. Skipper Mithali Raj capitalized on the foundation and scored her 64th fifty. <o:p></o:p>

While bowling, Rajeshwari Gayakwad and Harmanpreet took two wickets each but Laura Wolvaardt started well and du Preez played another brilliant knock to guide South Africa to victory. Du Preez came to bat at a difficult situation and her 52-run knock earned her the Player of the Match award. <o:p></o:p>

It was a game of fine margins as a crucial no-ball call in the final over meant that India were eliminated from the 2022 Women’s World Cup after losing to South Africa.

It was a game of fine margins as a crucial no-ball call in the final over meant that India were eliminated from the 2022 Women’s World Cup after losing to South Africa. With 3 runs need from 2 balls, Deepti Sharma dismissed Mignon du Preez as Harmanpreet Kaur took the catch at long-off. However, the celebration was short lived as the third umpire confirmed that it was a no-ball and du Preez scored a boundary off the very next ball to end India’s dreams of reaching the knockout stage. Also read | SA beat India in last-ball thriller to dump them out of Women's WC 2022 Former India opener Virender Sehwag took to Twitter to console the Indian women’s cricket team after the defeat and said that sometimes ‘an inch costs moments that took a decade to achieve’. It wasn't just the no ball which cost India the game today but sometimes an inch costs moments that takes decades to achieve and are possibly once in a lifetime achievement for many players. Disappointing end to India's campaign #IndvSA #cwc22 pic.twitter.com/2DzerovJD1 — Virender Sehwag (@virendersehwag) March 27, 2022 × “It wasn't just the no ball which cost India the game today but sometimes an inch costs moments that takes decades to achieve and are possibly once in a lifetime achievement for many players. Disappointing end to India's campaign #IndvSA #cwc22,” Sehwag posted on his account. Also read | IPL 2022: MS Dhoni scripts unique record with brilliant fifty against KKR Batting first, India were able to post a total of 274 for the loss of seven wickets thanks to brilliant contributions from Smriti Mandhana and Shafali Verma who stitched together a 91-run partnership for the opening wicket. Skipper Mithali Raj capitalized on the foundation and scored her 64th fifty. While bowling, Rajeshwari Gayakwad and Harmanpreet took two wickets each but Laura Wolvaardt started well and du Preez played another brilliant knock to guide South Africa to victory. Du Preez came to bat at a difficult situation and her 52-run knock earned her the Player of the Match award.

'It wasn't just the no ball' - Virender Sehwag reacts to India's Women's WC 2022 heartbreak

Mithali Raj-led India have their task cut out as they lock horns with one of the two unbeatable teams, i.e. Australia, in the ongoing ICC Women's World Cup on Saturday (March 19). With two wins and an equal number of losses, India are in a tricky position as far as semi-finals qualifications are concerned. Thus, they cannot afford any further slip-up as it will further complicate their task of finishing in the top-four.

Talking about India's run so far, the two-time runners-up thrashed Pakistan in their opening game before losing to New Zealand by a convincing margin. They then returned back to winning ways with a big win over then-unbeaten side West Indies, in their third game, before going down to England, who was winless before the India face-off. Will India end another team's unbeaten run in the eight-team tournament? Without a doubt, Australia will be a totally different challenge as the Women in Yellow have four wins from as many encounters.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/explained-heres-how-mithali-rajs-india-can-make-it-to-cwc-2022-semi-finals-after-england-drubbing-462886">EXPLAINED! Here's how Mithali Raj's India can make it to CWC 2022 semi-finals after England drubbing</a>

Match prediction for India vs Australia CWC 2022 face-off:&nbsp;Meg Lanning-led Aussies have been on a roll. So far, they edged past England before demolishing the likes of Pakistan, New Zealand and West Indies. Both teams have not played at the iconic Eden Park, Auckland, hence, that might test&nbsp;the two camps. Nonetheless, the Aussies are much more balanced,&nbsp;in a red-hot form to adapt and continue their winning run. For India, they need to click as the tournament is progressing towards the business end and the race for the semi-finals spot is heating up.&nbsp;

Given Australia and South Africa are very much likely to end as the top-two ranked sides, India are wary of the challenges&nbsp;with New Zealand, West Indies and England (who can still turn it around despite a solitary win from four games) battling it out for the remaining two slots.

At present, it seems Australia will continue their winning run unless India bring out their A-game.

Mithali Raj-led India have their task cut out as they lock horns with one of the two unbeatable teams, i.e. Australia, in the ongoing ICC Women's World Cup on Saturday (March 19).

Mithali Raj-led India have their task cut out as they lock horns with one of the two unbeatable teams, i.e. Australia, in the ongoing ICC Women's World Cup on Saturday (March 19). With two wins and an equal number of losses, India are in a tricky position as far as semi-finals qualifications are concerned. Thus, they cannot afford any further slip-up as it will further complicate their task of finishing in the top-four. Talking about India's run so far, the two-time runners-up thrashed Pakistan in their opening game before losing to New Zealand by a convincing margin. They then returned back to winning ways with a big win over then-unbeaten side West Indies, in their third game, before going down to England, who was winless before the India face-off. Will India end another team's unbeaten run in the eight-team tournament? Without a doubt, Australia will be a totally different challenge as the Women in Yellow have four wins from as many encounters. ALSO READ | EXPLAINED! Here's how Mithali Raj's India can make it to CWC 2022 semi-finals after England drubbing Match prediction for India vs Australia CWC 2022 face-off: Meg Lanning-led Aussies have been on a roll. So far, they edged past England before demolishing the likes of Pakistan, New Zealand and West Indies. Both teams have not played at the iconic Eden Park, Auckland, hence, that might test the two camps. Nonetheless, the Aussies are much more balanced, in a red-hot form to adapt and continue their winning run. For India, they need to click as the tournament is progressing towards the business end and the race for the semi-finals spot is heating up. Given Australia and South Africa are very much likely to end as the top-two ranked sides, India are wary of the challenges with New Zealand, West Indies and England (who can still turn it around despite a solitary win from four games) battling it out for the remaining two slots. At present, it seems Australia will continue their winning run unless India bring out their A-game.

IND vs AUS prediction: Who will win WWC 2022 match between India and Australia?

The nominees for ICC Players of the Month of February for men's and women's international cricket were announced on Wednesday.

February saw some strong men and women candidates staking their claim with some brilliant performances.

The ICC Player of the Month nominations in the men's category features UAE batter, Vriitya Aravind, India batter Shreyas Iyer and Nepal's Dipendra Sing Airee.

In the women's category, New Zealand all-rounder Amelia Kerr, India veteran star Mithali Raj and all-rounder Deepti Sharma are nominated.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/r-ashwin-or-harbhajan-singh-gautam-gambhir-picks-the-more-difficult-off-spinner-to-face-460293">R Ashwin or Harbhajan Singh? Gautam Gambhir picks the more difficult off-spinner to face</a>

Shreyas Iyer was in unstoppable form in the month of February and played a vital role in India's white-ball domination.

He started the month with a Player of the Match-winning 80 against West Indies in the final ODI and a 16-ball 25 in the last T20I.

With India opting to rest players and injury to Suryakumar Yadav, Iyer was promoted to No.3 in the T20I series against Sri Lanka.

He scored three unbeaten fifties in three games and finished with 204 runs at a blistering strike rate of 174.35 and was awarded the Player of the Series for his exploits.

Mithali Raj was one of the few shining lights for India in the ODI series against New Zealand.

She was the highest run-scorer for India and the second-highest overall with 232 runs, including three fifties, averaging 77.33 with a strike rate of 82.56.

In the final ODI, she played the role of the finisher to perfection, remaining unbeaten on 54 as India chased down 252 with four overs to spare.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/pakistan-vs-australia-1st-test-rawalpindi-run-fest-ends-in-a-dull-draw-460284">Pakistan vs Australia, 1st Test: Rawalpindi run-fest ends in a dull draw</a>

With the win, India ensured that they finished the series with a win in their kitty.

Deepti Sharma was brilliant with both the bat and ball in the series against New Zealand.

She took the most wickets (10) in the ODI series and was handy with the bat as well, aggregating 116 runs in five matches.

She grabbed a four-for in the second ODI and followed it up with a 69* in the next match.

The nominees for ICC Players of the Month of February for men's and women's international cricket were announced on Wednesday. February saw some strong men and women candidates staking their claim with some brilliant performances.

The nominees for ICC Players of the Month of February for men's and women's international cricket were announced on Wednesday. February saw some strong men and women candidates staking their claim with some brilliant performances. The ICC Player of the Month nominations in the men's category features UAE batter, Vriitya Aravind, India batter Shreyas Iyer and Nepal's Dipendra Sing Airee. In the women's category, New Zealand all-rounder Amelia Kerr, India veteran star Mithali Raj and all-rounder Deepti Sharma are nominated. ALSO READ: R Ashwin or Harbhajan Singh? Gautam Gambhir picks the more difficult off-spinner to face Shreyas Iyer was in unstoppable form in the month of February and played a vital role in India's white-ball domination. He started the month with a Player of the Match-winning 80 against West Indies in the final ODI and a 16-ball 25 in the last T20I. With India opting to rest players and injury to Suryakumar Yadav, Iyer was promoted to No.3 in the T20I series against Sri Lanka. He scored three unbeaten fifties in three games and finished with 204 runs at a blistering strike rate of 174.35 and was awarded the Player of the Series for his exploits. Mithali Raj was one of the few shining lights for India in the ODI series against New Zealand. She was the highest run-scorer for India and the second-highest overall with 232 runs, including three fifties, averaging 77.33 with a strike rate of 82.56. In the final ODI, she played the role of the finisher to perfection, remaining unbeaten on 54 as India chased down 252 with four overs to spare. ALSO READ: Pakistan vs Australia, 1st Test: Rawalpindi run-fest ends in a dull draw With the win, India ensured that they finished the series with a win in their kitty. Deepti Sharma was brilliant with both the bat and ball in the series against New Zealand. She took the most wickets (10) in the ODI series and was handy with the bat as well, aggregating 116 runs in five matches. She grabbed a four-for in the second ODI and followed it up with a 69* in the next match.

ICC Player of Month: Shreyas Iyer, Mithali Raj nominated for February

India Women drew their lone Test match against England Women in the 2021 English summer. The home side won the toss and chose for bat first at Bristol.&nbsp;

Half-centuries from Heather Knight, Tammy Beaumont, and Sophia Dunkle directed England Women to 396/9 in their first innings. In answer, India Women's openers Shafali Verma and Smriti Mandhana sewed up an epic partnership of 167 runs for the primary wicket.&nbsp;

In any case, India Women endured a collapse after the primary wicket fell. Made to follow on subsequent to being excused for 231 in their first innings, because of England's 396 for 9 declared, India Women disintegrated to 199 for 7 in the subsequent innings and appeared to tear towards a difficult loss.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wtc-final-india-have-done-very-very-well-michael-vaughan-lauds-virat-and-cos-batting-effort-392679" hreflang="en">'India have done very well': Michael Vaughan lauds Virat and Co.'s batting</a>

Notwithstanding, Test debutants Sneh Rana and Taniya Bhatia included in an extraordinary ninth-wicket stand to baffle the England bowling. The pair added 104 runs to break England's purpose and secure an acclaimed escape for India Women.&nbsp;

Sneh Rana batted for 195 minutes and scored an unbeaten 80 out of 154 balls with the guide of 13 fours. At the opposite end, Taniya Bhatia involved the wrinkle for 115 minutes and stayed unbeaten on 44 from 88 balls. India made 344 for 8 of every 121 overs in their second innings as the Test finished in a draw.

Shafali Verma was awarded the Player of the Match award on her Test debut. The 17-year-old made another record for the most sixes by a player in women's Test cricket history.&nbsp;

Shafali Verma missed out on her maiden Test ton by only four runs in the first innings. In the subsequent innings, she scored an 83-ball 63. Shafali Verma will anticipate proceeding along these lines in the impending games and go on to be the face of Indian cricket in the near future.&nbsp;

Deepti Sharma was another top entertainer for India Women in this game. She was the lone survivor on 29* in the first innings when England Women went through the Indian batting order.&nbsp;

She got advancement to number three in the subsequent innings, and she didn't baffle as the 23-year-old played a patient thump of 54 runs. Deepti Sharma played 168 balls for her 54 runs and expanded the odds of India Women drawing the one-off Test match.&nbsp;

Sneh Rana lost her father two months prior to a cardiovascular failure. The Railways-hailed cricketer was in melancholy when a call-up to the Indian Test, ODI, and T20 teams for a visit to England brought back her grin. She needed to satisfy her father's desire - to see her do well for the Indian team. Playing her first Test, off-spinner Sneh Rana sacked four wickets in the first innings against England ladies in Bristol on her debut and committed the appearance to her late father.

Relatively few expected bowling all-rounder Sneh Rana to proceed as astonishingly with the bat as she did. Sneh Rana, making her Test debut, stayed not out on 80 off 154 balls in the subsequent innings.&nbsp;

She assumed a vital part in denying England Women a triumph. Indian fans will trust that she keeps contributing similarly in the following installations.

India Women drew their lone Test match against England Women in the 2021 English summer. The home side won the toss and chose for bat first at Bristol. Half-centuries from Heather Knight, Tammy Beaumont, and Sophia Dunkle directed England Women to 396/9 in their first innings.

India Women drew their lone Test match against England Women in the 2021 English summer. The home side won the toss and chose for bat first at Bristol. Half-centuries from Heather Knight, Tammy Beaumont, and Sophia Dunkle directed England Women to 396/9 in their first innings. In answer, India Women's openers Shafali Verma and Smriti Mandhana sewed up an epic partnership of 167 runs for the primary wicket. In any case, India Women endured a collapse after the primary wicket fell. Made to follow on subsequent to being excused for 231 in their first innings, because of England's 396 for 9 declared, India Women disintegrated to 199 for 7 in the subsequent innings and appeared to tear towards a difficult loss. ALSO READ: 'India have done very well': Michael Vaughan lauds Virat and Co.'s batting Notwithstanding, Test debutants Sneh Rana and Taniya Bhatia included in an extraordinary ninth-wicket stand to baffle the England bowling. The pair added 104 runs to break England's purpose and secure an acclaimed escape for India Women. Sneh Rana batted for 195 minutes and scored an unbeaten 80 out of 154 balls with the guide of 13 fours. At the opposite end, Taniya Bhatia involved the wrinkle for 115 minutes and stayed unbeaten on 44 from 88 balls. India made 344 for 8 of every 121 overs in their second innings as the Test finished in a draw. Shafali Verma was awarded the Player of the Match award on her Test debut. The 17-year-old made another record for the most sixes by a player in women's Test cricket history. Shafali Verma missed out on her maiden Test ton by only four runs in the first innings. In the subsequent innings, she scored an 83-ball 63. Shafali Verma will anticipate proceeding along these lines in the impending games and go on to be the face of Indian cricket in the near future. Deepti Sharma was another top entertainer for India Women in this game. She was the lone survivor on 29* in the first innings when England Women went through the Indian batting order. She got advancement to number three in the subsequent innings, and she didn't baffle as the 23-year-old played a patient thump of 54 runs. Deepti Sharma played 168 balls for her 54 runs and expanded the odds of India Women drawing the one-off Test match. Sneh Rana lost her father two months prior to a cardiovascular failure. The Railways-hailed cricketer was in melancholy when a call-up to the Indian Test, ODI, and T20 teams for a visit to England brought back her grin. She needed to satisfy her father's desire - to see her do well for the Indian team. Playing her first Test, off-spinner Sneh Rana sacked four wickets in the first innings against England ladies in Bristol on her debut and committed the appearance to her late father. Relatively few expected bowling all-rounder Sneh Rana to proceed as astonishingly with the bat as she did. Sneh Rana, making her Test debut, stayed not out on 80 off 154 balls in the subsequent innings. She assumed a vital part in denying England Women a triumph. Indian fans will trust that she keeps contributing similarly in the following installations.

Cricket: Debutants shine as Indian women's team draw the one-off Test against England

Absence of experience with negotiating the end phases of a day was a significant purpose for the batting collapse India endured on the second day of the one-off Test against England Women, figures opener Smriti Mandhana.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wtc-final-tom-latham-is-thankful-for-a-reserve-day-as-day-1-was-washed-out-392525" hreflang="en">WTC Final: Tom Latham is thankful for a reserve day as Day 1 was washed out</a>&nbsp;

Smriti Mandhana, a snappy left-hander, and youthful Shafali Verma had produced a strong 167-run remain with their half-centuries of years in India's reaction to the monstrous England first innings all out of 396/9.&nbsp;

Be that as it may, Team India lost five wickets in a rush to lose the plot and were ultimately compelled to follow on. In a post-match press conference after the end of Day 3, Smriti Mandhana said: &nbsp;“Definitely, a slight pressure of ending the day ‘not out’, might have played a part and that will come with experience."

“The more we play Test matches, the more we’ll get used to the conditions – one over before lunch or one over before the day’s end and all those sessions, so we can be more mature about (approaching them) and not take the pressure.”

In any case, she accused herself rather than naiveté, for her own dismissal.&nbsp;

“We aren’t used to batting beyond 50 overs. But I wouldn’t say I got out because of lack of experience in Test matches because I threw my wicket away in the last session” - she said.

Smriti Mandhana said the conditions were still useful for batting and with capable player Shafali Verma continuing forward, her side was in a decent position.&nbsp;

India were 83 for 1 at stumps on the downpour intruded on third and penultimate day in the wake of following on, as yet following by 82 runs generally with nine second-innings wickets close by.&nbsp;

“The conditions changed slightly, it was just windy. It wasn’t swinging that much. It was good to bat on though the conditions were cloudy and overcast” - she added.

Shafali Verma and Deepti Sharma were batting on 55 and 18 individually when the final session was wiped out by a downpour. Smriti Mandhana scored eight runs in the second innings after a 78 in the first.&nbsp;

“I gave away my wicket though it was not such great a ball. I am disappointed.”&nbsp;

Smriti Mandhana was all acclaimed for youthful Shafali Verma, who missed on a ton in the primary innings by only 4 runs, saying it was noteworthy to watch her bat.&nbsp;

“We both are very similar in our approach to keep things simple, so we don’t really discuss much batting in the middle. The way she changed her game and the maturity she showed, is very positive for Indian cricket going forward. Her shots, in T20Is I’ve always watched them from the other end. I hope she keeps going the way she is.”

Absence of experience with negotiating the end phases of a day was a significant purpose for the batting collapse India endured on the second day of the one-off Test against England Women, figures opener Smriti Mandhana.

Absence of experience with negotiating the end phases of a day was a significant purpose for the batting collapse India endured on the second day of the one-off Test against England Women, figures opener Smriti Mandhana. ALSO READ: WTC Final: Tom Latham is thankful for a reserve day as Day 1 was washed out Smriti Mandhana, a snappy left-hander, and youthful Shafali Verma had produced a strong 167-run remain with their half-centuries of years in India's reaction to the monstrous England first innings all out of 396/9. Be that as it may, Team India lost five wickets in a rush to lose the plot and were ultimately compelled to follow on. In a post-match press conference after the end of Day 3, Smriti Mandhana said: “Definitely, a slight pressure of ending the day ‘not out’, might have played a part and that will come with experience." “The more we play Test matches, the more we’ll get used to the conditions – one over before lunch or one over before the day’s end and all those sessions, so we can be more mature about (approaching them) and not take the pressure.” In any case, she accused herself rather than naiveté, for her own dismissal. “We aren’t used to batting beyond 50 overs. But I wouldn’t say I got out because of lack of experience in Test matches because I threw my wicket away in the last session” - she said. Smriti Mandhana said the conditions were still useful for batting and with capable player Shafali Verma continuing forward, her side was in a decent position. India were 83 for 1 at stumps on the downpour intruded on third and penultimate day in the wake of following on, as yet following by 82 runs generally with nine second-innings wickets close by. “The conditions changed slightly, it was just windy. It wasn’t swinging that much. It was good to bat on though the conditions were cloudy and overcast” - she added. Shafali Verma and Deepti Sharma were batting on 55 and 18 individually when the final session was wiped out by a downpour. Smriti Mandhana scored eight runs in the second innings after a 78 in the first. “I gave away my wicket though it was not such great a ball. I am disappointed.” Smriti Mandhana was all acclaimed for youthful Shafali Verma, who missed on a ton in the primary innings by only 4 runs, saying it was noteworthy to watch her bat. “We both are very similar in our approach to keep things simple, so we don’t really discuss much batting in the middle. The way she changed her game and the maturity she showed, is very positive for Indian cricket going forward. Her shots, in T20Is I’ve always watched them from the other end. I hope she keeps going the way she is.”

Cricket: Need more Test match experience to avoid collapses, says Smriti Mandhana

Team India’s performance in the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup was praised by all even though the Women in Blue came just short and finished with a runner’s up medal. &nbsp;Players like Shafali Verma, Poonam Yadav, Shikha Pandey and Deepti Sharma were some who stood out in Team India’s journey to the final. And Shikha and Deepti’s names have been suggested for this year’s prestigious Arjuna Awards by the Board of Control for Cricket in India’s (BCCI) Cricket Operations team.

Shikha and Deepti’s consistent run of form since 2019 has reaped rewards and their performances have helped their names being forwarded to the office-bearers for the recommendation for the Arjuna Awards.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/csk-reject-playing-ipl-2020-with-only-indian-players-says-it-will-be-similar-to-syed-mushtaq-ali-trophy-298286" hreflang="en">CSK reject playing IPL 2020 with only Indian players, says it will be similar to Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy</a>

“Yes, the office-bearers were given the names of Shikha and Deepti by the cricket operations team for not just their brilliant show in the World T20 in Australia where we finished as runners-up, but also for their consistent showing in the last season. These two names have been forwarded to the office-bearers and are likely to be forwarded to the ministry for the Arjuna Awards once they approve,” a source close to the development was quoted as saying in media reports.

Shikha scalped seven wickets from five matches with the best figures of 3/14 in the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup. Whereas Deepti played an all-round role while being instrumental with both bat and ball and finished the showpiece event with 116 under her belt.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/icc-womens-cricket-world-cup-qualifier-postponed-due-to-covid-19-pandemic-298154" hreflang="en">ICC Women's Cricket World Cup Qualifier postponed due to COVID-19 pandemic</a>

Furthermore, Shikha is also a part of the Indian Air Force. “I’ve done engineering, and I’m an officer in the Indian Air Force. I joined the Air Force in 2012, and I took my training as well, and now I happen to be a flying officer, ATC officer. Then in 2014, I debuted for the Indian cricket team,” Shikha had revealed during the World T20.

The Sports Ministry on May 5 invited nominations for 2020 National Sports Awards including the Rajiv Gandhi Khel Ratna Award and Arjuna Award. Amid the COVID-19 outbreak, the ministry had asked for nominations to be sent via e-mail.&nbsp;

The process, which usually starts in April, has been delayed due to the pandemic. “Due to lockdown on account of the outbreak of COVID-19, hard copies of nominations are not required to be sent. Scanned copies of the nominations duly signed by the applicant/recommending authority may be sent at above-mentioned email ids, before the last date of submission,” said the ministry in its circular.

The ministry has given a deadline of June 3 to file the nominations. 
&nbsp;

Team India’s performance in the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup was praised by all even though the Women in Blue came just short and finished with a runner’s up medal.

Team India’s performance in the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup was praised by all even though the Women in Blue came just short and finished with a runner’s up medal. Players like Shafali Verma, Poonam Yadav, Shikha Pandey and Deepti Sharma were some who stood out in Team India’s journey to the final. And Shikha and Deepti’s names have been suggested for this year’s prestigious Arjuna Awards by the Board of Control for Cricket in India’s (BCCI) Cricket Operations team. Shikha and Deepti’s consistent run of form since 2019 has reaped rewards and their performances have helped their names being forwarded to the office-bearers for the recommendation for the Arjuna Awards. ALSO READ: CSK reject playing IPL 2020 with only Indian players, says it will be similar to Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy “Yes, the office-bearers were given the names of Shikha and Deepti by the cricket operations team for not just their brilliant show in the World T20 in Australia where we finished as runners-up, but also for their consistent showing in the last season. These two names have been forwarded to the office-bearers and are likely to be forwarded to the ministry for the Arjuna Awards once they approve,” a source close to the development was quoted as saying in media reports. Shikha scalped seven wickets from five matches with the best figures of 3/14 in the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup. Whereas Deepti played an all-round role while being instrumental with both bat and ball and finished the showpiece event with 116 under her belt. ALSO READ: ICC Women's Cricket World Cup Qualifier postponed due to COVID-19 pandemic Furthermore, Shikha is also a part of the Indian Air Force. “I’ve done engineering, and I’m an officer in the Indian Air Force. I joined the Air Force in 2012, and I took my training as well, and now I happen to be a flying officer, ATC officer. Then in 2014, I debuted for the Indian cricket team,” Shikha had revealed during the World T20. The Sports Ministry on May 5 invited nominations for 2020 National Sports Awards including the Rajiv Gandhi Khel Ratna Award and Arjuna Award. Amid the COVID-19 outbreak, the ministry had asked for nominations to be sent via e-mail. The process, which usually starts in April, has been delayed due to the pandemic. “Due to lockdown on account of the outbreak of COVID-19, hard copies of nominations are not required to be sent. Scanned copies of the nominations duly signed by the applicant/recommending authority may be sent at above-mentioned email ids, before the last date of submission,” said the ministry in its circular. The ministry has given a deadline of June 3 to file the nominations.

Arjuna Awards: BCCI likely to recommend Shikha Pandey, Deepti Sharma's name

Australian women's team beat India by 11 runs in finals of the tri-nation women's T20 series in Melbourne on Wednesday and clinched the series win. What a spell that was from Jess Jonassen to power Australia to victory in the tri-series final over India 👏 pic.

Australian women's team beat India by 11 runs in finals of the tri-nation women's T20 series in Melbourne on Wednesday and clinched the series win. What a spell that was from Jess Jonassen to power Australia to victory in the tri-series final over India 👏 pic.twitter.com/RHwbPIluFa — ICC (@ICC) February 12, 2020 × Indian opener Smriti Mandhana's quickfire 66 runs off 37 balls was overpowered by Australian spinner Jess Jonassen's five-wicket haul which helped Australia defend a challenging total. Australia won the toss and chose to bat. Beth Mooney scored the most for the team (71 runs). Australia made good use of the last over. India's Rajeshwari Gayakwad conceded 19 runs in the final over. Australia have reduced India to 69/3 at the halfway mark, with Tayla Vlaeminck claiming two key wickets! Can India fight back? Follow #AUSvIND 👉 https://t.co/cocffiMMUe pic.twitter.com/15THXQbxTD — ICC (@ICC) February 12, 2020 × Indian women's Smriti Mandhana scored the most for India, at one point India was 115 for the loss of 3 wickets in the 15th over, but after Smriti Mandhana and Indian skipper Harmanpreet Kaur wickets in consecutive overs shattered the Indian hopes. India was all-out on144 runs in 20 overs. Jess Jonassen was adjudged the Player of the match after her match deciding five-wicket haul. Beth Mooney's fertile run-scoring performance earned her the Player of the Series. The Tri-nation series consisted of Australia, India and England. All the teams won and lost two matches. Playing XI: Australia: Alyssa Healy (wk), Beth Mooney, Ashleigh Gardner, Meg Lanning (c), Ellyse Perry, Rachael Haynes, Nicola Carey, Annabel Sutherland, Jess Jonassen, Megan Schutt, Tayla Vlaeminck India: Shafali Verma, Smriti Mandhana, Jemimah Rodrigues, Harmanpreet Kaur (c), Deepti Sharma, Taniya Bhatia (wk), Richa Ghosh, Shikha Pandey, Rajeshwari Gayakwad, Arundhati Reddy, Radha Yadav

Australian women's team beat India by 11 runs to clinch Tri-nation T20 series

deepti-sharma

Deepti Sharma, News on Deepti Sharma, stories on Deepti Sharma, articles on Deepti Sharma, Deepti Sharma stories at Wion, Deepti Sharma news, Deepti Sharma latest news

deepti sharma