Indian opener Shafali Verma commended India’s spin bowling unit following their 94-run victory against Thailand in the Women’s T20 Asia Cup at Dubai International Cricket Stadium on Sunday.
Speaking at the post-match press conference, Verma highlighted the experience of Deepti Sharma, Sneh Rana and Radha Yadav as a key advantage on the turning pitch. “They (Deepti, Radha and Rana) are all really mature, and we all know this is a turning track, turning conditions. They all showed very good bowling. They are in a very good space, and they bowled really well. So we are happy as a team that our bowlers are in a good mindset,” she said.
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India posted 159 for 9, boosted by Verma’s 64 off 36 balls, which included eight fours and three sixes. However, the middle order faltered as India slipped from 92 for 1 to 137 for 9 due to pressure applied by Thailand’s spinners. Verma acknowledged the quality of the opposition’s bowling and noted the need for improvement in the middle overs. “As a batter, I was set at that time. I just made a bit of a mistake. The ball gripped a little bit and came on a little late. I might have played it grounded, but it’s just a day,” she said. “Talking about the team, we are all trying to do our best. Credit to the Thailand bowlers. I am so happy that women’s cricket is growing,” she added.
In response, Thailand were restricted to 65 all
In response, Thailand were restricted to 65 all out in 16.1 overs. Deepti Sharma took a historic 3 wickets for no runs, becoming the first Indian bowler to claim three or more wickets without conceding a run in a Women’s T20 International. Nandni Sharma took 3 for 18 and Shree Charani 2 for 10, demonstrating the dominance of India’s spin attack.
Thailand’s Nannapat Koncharoenkai offered some resistance with 41 runs off 48 balls, but the team was unable to mount a meaningful chase.
Verma also commented on the absence of all-rounder Pooja Vastrakar, who is recovering from injury. “Pooja is a very good player, and she is recovering very well. It’s just cricket; whoever gets a chance, they will do well. We all know what she can do in our team, and we are missing her,” she said.
India will next face Hong Kong Women on September 3 in the tournament.
Source: thenewsmill.com
