After a commanding 49-run victory in the first T20I, India will look to address their fielding flaws as they face West Indies in the second match of the series on Tuesday. Despite extending their winning streak to nine games against the Caribbean side, dropped catches by key players marred what was otherwise a strong performance.
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Fielding Woes Persist
India’s fielding lapses were evident in the opener, with Jemimah Rodrigues, Smriti Mandhana, and Saima Thakor spilling straightforward chances. Rodrigues and Mandhana dropped the dangerous Deandra Dottin, who capitalized with a blistering 28-ball 52, while Thakor let Qiana Joseph off on 34, allowing her to score a vital 49.
Minnu Mani’s spirited display as a substitute fielder stood out, especially in the absence of regular captain Harmanpreet Kaur, who missed most of India’s fielding innings due to an unspecified issue. However, Kaur showed no signs of discomfort during her brief batting stint, scoring an unbeaten 13 off 14 balls.
Batting Firepower Leads the Way
India’s batting shone in the series opener, with unified efforts from the top order. Uma Chetry impressed in her debut as an opener, scoring 24 with exquisite cover drives. Mandhana, fresh off a century in the final ODI against Australia, continued her form with her sixth half-century of the year.
The highlight was Rodrigues, who delivered a scintillating 35-ball 73, showcasing her ability to hit beyond her preferred leg-side strokes. Her nine fours and two sixes powered India to a strong total, setting the tone for their bowlers to defend.
West Indies Seek Redemption
The West Indies, despite moments of brilliance, struggled to capitalize on opportunities. Qiana Joseph and Deandra Dottin were the standouts with the bat, using the long handle to great effect. However, their bowling lacked discipline, with 10 wides proving costly. Karishma Ramharack’s tight 2/18 was a rare bright spot for the visitors.
The West Indies will need improved performances from captain Hayley Matthews and other senior players to level the series.
Key Players to Watch
- India: Jemimah Rodrigues, Smriti Mandhana, Minnu Mani
- West Indies: Deandra Dottin, Qiana Joseph, Karishma Ramharack
Squads
India: Harmanpreet Kaur (c), Smriti Mandhana, Nandini Kashyap, Jemimah Rodrigues, Richa Ghosh (wk), Uma Chetry (wk), Deepti Sharma, Sajeevan Sajana, Raghvi Bisht, Renuka Thakur, Priya Mishra, Titas Sadhu, Saima Thakor, Minnu Mani, Radha Yadav.
West Indies: Hayley Matthews (c), Shemaine Campbelle (vc), Aaliyah Alleyne, Shamilia Connell, Nerissa Crafton, Deandra Dottin, Afy Fletcher, Shabika Gajnabi, Chinelle Henry, Zaida James, Qiana Joseph, Mandy Mangru, Ashmini Munisar, Karishma Ramharack, Rashada Williams.
As India aims to tighten their fielding and the West Indies seek to bounce back, the second T20I promises to be an engaging contest.