India made a winning start to their Women's T20 World Cup 2024 campaign by defeating arch-rivals Pakistan by 6 wickets in a tense match in Sharjah on Sunday. India chased down a modest target of 106, with seven balls to spare, despite losing their captain Harmanpreet Kaur to a neck injury. Indian pacer Jasprit Bumrah, in a different role for the day, attended the match to show support for the women's team, praising their spirit and performance. Bumrah expressed his pride in the team, saying that his presence was to boost morale and support their efforts on the field.

Bumrah as supporter 

In a unique twist, India's star fast bowler Jasprit Bumrah was seen in the stands, showing his unwavering support for the women’s team. While he’s usually known for his match-winning performances, Bumrah shared that he was there in a different capacity, helping to uplift the team spirit and cheer for the women as they took on Pakistan. 

Bumrah also appreciated the strong bowling display led by Arundhati Reddy and Shreyanka Patil, who played key roles in India’s victory. He added that such collective performances build momentum, and the team looks set to carry forward this energy in upcoming matches.

 

 

 

 

 

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India’s bowling shine against Pakistan 

After Pakistan opted to bat first, India’s bowlers were on point from the beginning, restricting Pakistan to 105/8 in 20 overs. Arundhati Reddy was the pick of the bowlers, claiming 3 wickets for 19 runs, while Shreyanka Patil also contributed with 2 crucial wickets. The Indian bowling attack, maintaining a tight line and length, stifled the Pakistani batters who struggled to find any momentum. Pakistan's Nida Dar was the top-scorer with 28 off 34 balls, but the Indian bowlers ensured wickets kept falling at regular intervals, never allowing the opposition to settle in.

In the chase, India faced a setback when captain Harmanpreet Kaur retired hurt after suffering a neck injury. Despite this, the Indian batters remained composed, with vital contributions from Jemimah Rodrigues and Smriti Mandhana, who helped India reach the target in 18.5 overs.

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India completed a successful chase in 18.5 overs, securing their first win of the tournament by 6 wickets. Pakistan's total of 105 was never enough as India comfortably chased down the target despite the early exit of their captain. The victory gives India the momentum they need heading into the rest of the tournament, while Jasprit Bumrah’s presence as a supporter further uplifted the team’s spirit.