Guwahati, October 1 –
The Women’s ODI World Cup opened on an emphatic note for Team India, who overcame tricky conditions and a spirited opponent to defeat Sri Lanka by 59 runs (DLS method) in Guwahati. The clinical performance was anchored by all-rounder Deepti Sharma, backed by disciplined bowling and timely batting partnerships that steadied the innings after an early wobble.
This victory not only brings India two crucial points but also injects confidence into a side eager to reclaim global dominance. It was a result that resonated far beyond the scoreboard—an opening statement that this squad means business.
The Match: Rain, Pressure, and Resilience
Intermittent showers meant the match was shortened, forcing players and coaches to adapt strategy on the fly. India batted first on a pitch that progressively slowed, making stroke play difficult. Despite losing early wickets, the middle order steadied through Deepti Sharma and Jemimah Rodrigues, who rotated strike effectively and stitched partnerships to set up a competitive total.
When Sri Lanka began their chase, they were immediately stifled by dot-ball pressure. Indian bowlers, particularly the spinners, dictated terms with sharp turn and clever variations. Regular breakthroughs never allowed the visitors to settle, and the required run rate spiraled out of reach.
Deepti Sharma: The All-Round Rock
Deepti Sharma once again proved why she is considered India’s heartbeat in crunch moments. Her composed batting helped India recover from early nerves, while her precision bowling in the middle overs ensured Sri Lanka never found momentum.
Her dual role reminded fans of the multi-utility players who often define World Cup campaigns. As skipper Harmanpreet Kaur remarked post-match, “Deepti’s composure was crucial today. She steadied the batting and then applied pressure with the ball. That’s the hallmark of a true all-rounder.”
Bowling Unit Shines Under Lights
India’s bowling was a collective triumph. Spinners exploited the slowing track, with Rajeshwari Gayakwad and Poonam Yadav backing up Deepti superbly. The seamers provided early breakthroughs, while fielders supported with sharp catches and energetic ground work.
Sri Lanka’s batters, despite flashes of resistance, struggled to rotate strike. Dot balls mounted, forcing risky shots that fell into waiting hands. It was a masterclass in disciplined bowling, ensuring the asking rate never dipped under control.
Areas to Improve: Powerplay Batting
Despite the win, India’s think-tank acknowledged the need for improvement in powerplay batting. Early wickets have been a recurring concern, and in big tournaments, fragile starts can cost dearly. The coaching staff has underlined the importance of aggressive yet cautious starts in upcoming matches against tougher opponents.
Assistant coach Hemlata Kala noted, “We need more solidity at the top. Middle-order rescues won’t always be sustainable. The openers must convert starts.”
The Bigger Picture: Why This Win Matters
This 59-run win carries weight beyond points:
- Momentum: Opening wins in World Cups set the psychological tone for campaigns.
- Net Run Rate: With rain affecting fixtures, net run rate could be decisive in group stages. India’s margin here is significant.
- Confidence Boost: Youngsters like Rodrigues and Richa Ghosh gained valuable time in the middle.
For fans, especially in the Northeast where cricket is steadily gaining popularity, the Guwahati crowd provided passionate backing, amplifying the occasion’s significance.
Sri Lanka’s Struggle
For Sri Lanka, the defeat underlined their over-reliance on senior batters. They failed to adapt to the slowing track and India’s relentless spin choke. The lack of partnerships meant even modest chases looked steep. Skipper Chamari Athapaththu admitted post-match, “We didn’t rotate strike well. Dot balls hurt us badly. We must be braver in the middle overs.”
Fans and Atmosphere in Guwahati
The Barsapara Cricket Stadium witnessed enthusiastic turnout despite the weather. Flags, chants, and drums echoed, showing how much women’s cricket has grown in India. Young girls in the stands waved posters of Harmanpreet, Smriti Mandhana, and Deepti Sharma, dreaming of their own cricketing journeys.
The BCCI has invested in spreading women’s matches beyond metro hubs, and Guwahati’s successful hosting reflects that outreach.
Looking Ahead: Road Toughens
India’s campaign only gets tougher from here. With matches lined up against heavyweights like Australia and England, consistency will be key. Lessons from Guwahati—powerplay caution, middle-over acceleration, and fielding intensity—must be refined quickly.
Yet, with a winning start and their senior players firing, India looks poised to mount a serious challenge.
A Nation’s Expectations
Women’s cricket in India has evolved from being an afterthought to commanding prime-time slots. Every World Cup brings the weight of expectations from millions. For Harmanpreet’s side, the message is clear: the nation believes.
As India’s women walked off victorious in Guwahati, one fan summed it up best: “This isn’t just about cricket. It’s about pride, resilience, and proving again that our women can conquer the world stage.”
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