The ongoing T20 series between India Women and West Indies is finely poised as the West Indies levelled the series with a comfortable 9-wicket win.
The match saw standout performances from captain Hayley Matthews, who played a brilliant unbeaten knock of 85, and all-rounder Deandra Dottin, whose impressive bowling figures of 2 for 14 stifled the Indian batters.
India, without their regular captain Harmanpreet Kaur due to a niggling injury, was led by Smriti Mandhana.
After winning the toss, the West Indies opted to field first. Mandhana capitalized on a few dropped chances to score a valuable 62 off 41 balls, while wicketkeeper-batter Richa Ghosh chipped in with a quick-fire 32 from 17 deliveries.
However, India struggled to maintain momentum, and the rest of the batting lineup faltered, leaving them with a modest total of 159 for West Indies to chase.
West Indies got off to a solid start, with captain Matthews leading from the front. Her unbeaten 85 anchored the chase, with support from opener Qiana Joseph, who contributed 38 runs. Shemaine Campbelle remained not out with 29, sealing the victory in style.
On the Indian bowling side, Saima Thakor was the only wicket-taker, finishing with figures of 1 for 28, while the rest of the bowlers struggled to make an impact.
The absence of Harmanpreet Kaur was felt not only in the batting but also in the leadership, as India appeared to lack direction under Mandhana’s captaincy.
For India to win the upcoming third and deciding match, improvements will be needed in all departments. Mandhana, in particular, will need to sharpen her captaincy, and the Indian bowlers must bounce back to avoid further disappointment.
All eyes are now on the series decider, which will be played on Thursday. Fans will be hoping for a more competitive and exciting contest, something that was missing in the first two games.
