India women cricket team marked their remarkable return to international stage with stunning performance against Bangladesh women team in the first T20I match of series. The match, held in Mirpur on July 9, 2023, witnessed exceptional bowling from Pooja Vastrakar and Deepti Sharma, followed by a stellar batting display by Harmanpreet Kaur.
Choosing to field first, India's decision proved fruitful as they restricted Bangladesh to a total of 114 for 5. Vastrakar and Deepti kept the runs in check, putting pressure on the Bangladeshi batters. In response, Harmanpreet and Smriti Mandhana showcased their batting prowess, leading India to a comfortable seven-wicket victory with 22 balls to spare.
The match began with favorable bowling conditions, thanks to the overcast weather and a slightly green pitch. Harmanpreet's decision to field first paid off immediately, with Vastrakar starting with a maiden over and creating movement in the air. Debutant Minnu Mani struck early, dismissing Shamima Sultana, while Shathi Rani provided some resistance for Bangladesh with three successive fours.
However, the Indian bowlers had a firm hold on the match, not allowing the opposition to score freely. Vastrakar's aggressive bowling resulted in Rani's wicket, and the spinners, including Deepti, found sharp turn and bounce to further stifle the opposition. The run-rate dwindled, and Bangladesh struggled to score boundaries, losing wickets in the process. Shorna Akter's late heroics propelled Bangladesh past the 100-run mark, but their total of 114 for 5 was below par.
Chasing a modest target, India faced an early setback with the dismissal of Shafali Varma. However, Jemimah Rodrigues and Mandhana provided a solid foundation before being dismissed. It was the partnership between Mandhana and Harmanpreet that proved decisive for India. They capitalized on loose deliveries, scoring boundaries at regular intervals and ensuring a smooth run chase.
Mandhana's departure didn't hinder India's progress as Harmanpreet unleashed her attacking game. She punished the Bangladeshi bowlers with powerful hitting, reaching her fifty in just 34 balls. Harmanpreet's unbeaten knock guided India to victory, finishing the game with a boundary through midwicket.
India's impressive performance in their first international outing after a four-month break highlights their dominance in women's cricket. The team displayed a strong bowling attack and a formidable batting lineup, setting the tone for the remainder of the series against Bangladesh.