India became the first team to reach the semi-finals of the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup on Thursday as they earned a nail-biting four-run win over New Zealand. A quickfire 46 from teenage prodigy Shafali Verma and superb bowling from the spinners ensured India maintained their unbeaten streak, despite a batting collapse.
New Zealand skipper Sophie Devine won the toss at Melbourne’s Junction Oval and opted to bowl with her team restricting India to 133/8 after Verma gave them a strong start, with three sixes and four fours off her 34 balls. The four-pronged spin attack then restricted the storied New Zealand top order with regular wickets.
Also read: Women’s T20 World Cup points table after India’s win against New Zealand
A swashbuckling late charge by Amelia Kerr gave the White Ferns some hope, but a sharp final over from Shikha Pandey left them at 129/6.
Here’s how Twitter reacted to India’s semi-final charge:
Shafali Verma the star
A word on the other players
New Zealand came close
Buy an annual Scroll Membership to support independent journalism and get special benefits.
Our journalism is for everyone. But you can get special privileges by buying an annual Scroll Membership. Sign up today!