Deepti and Niki steadied the innings with an 82-run fifth-wicket partnership from 63 balls, turning a precarious chase into a comfortable victory…reports Asian Lite News Desk
Former India cricketer Veda Krishnamurthy has described India’s early batting collapse against Zimbabwe in the opening women’s T20I as an “eye-opener”, saying the top order must be better prepared for slower bowling in the next match.
India overcame a difficult start to chase down Zimbabwe’s target of 115 in 15.4 overs, winning by six wickets with 26 balls to spare at the Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh International Cricket Stadium on Friday. The victory gave India a 1-0 lead in the three-match series.
Deepti Sharma top-scored with 49, while Niki Prasad remained unbeaten on 39 to guide the hosts to victory after four early wickets threatened to derail the chase.
Speaking to JioStar, Veda said India’s batters appeared to need time to adjust to Zimbabwe’s slower bowlers. She added that the experience should help the team prepare for the second T20I on Sunday.
“India lost a couple of wickets early on; it takes time to adjust to slower bowlers, and that is exactly what happened,” Veda said.
She noted that Indian batters regularly prepare for the pace and intensity of international competition, particularly against sides such as Australia and England. However, the performance against Zimbabwe highlighted the need to adapt to different bowling styles and conditions.
“There is no taking away from the class of the top-order players, but I believe they will be much better prepared in the next game,” she added.
India’s problems began after captain Smriti Mandhana struck two boundaries in the opening over. Nyasha Gwanzura dismissed Mandhana and Anushka Sharma, while Michelle Mavunga removed Harmanpreet Kaur. Shafali Verma then fell to Gwanzura, leaving India struggling at 19/4 inside four overs.
Deepti and Niki steadied the innings with an 82-run fifth-wicket partnership from 63 balls, turning a precarious chase into a comfortable victory.
Veda praised Deepti’s experience and attacking approach, saying her ability to absorb pressure allowed the young Niki to settle at the crease.
The former India international also highlighted the value of the left-right batting combination, which can disrupt bowlers’ rhythm. She said the pair’s experience in domestic cricket had helped them respond to the challenging situation.
Niki, 20, earned particular praise for her composure in her first international innings. Veda said the youngster showed maturity in handling pressure despite being forced to bat earlier than might have been expected.
The second T20I on Sunday will give India’s top order an opportunity to respond to the warning signs from the opening match while the team looks to extend its lead in the series.
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