India’s chances of making it to the Women’s T20 World Cup semifinals came to an end after New Zealand secured a 54-run victory over Pakistan on Monday. India needed Pakistan to win the match to stay in contention, but New Zealand’s win dashed those hopes, pushing India out of the tournament.
New Zealand’s win marked their first qualification for the semifinals since 2016. Despite Pakistan restricting New Zealand to a modest 110 for six in their 20 overs, their batting lineup collapsed, managing only 56 runs in 11.4 overs, allowing New Zealand to advance with three wins from four games in Group A.
Australia topped the group with eight points, while New Zealand secured second place with six points. India’s earlier loss to New Zealand in the tournament opener proved costly, ultimately leading to their exit from the tournament.
Pakistan’s bowlers put up a strong fight, with spinners Omaima Sohail (1/14 in 4 overs) and Nashra Sandhu (3/18 in 4 overs) shining in the middle overs, taking four wickets for only 29 runs. However, Pakistan’s batting couldn’t keep up as seamers Lea Tahuhu (1/8) and Eden Carson (2/7) opened the floodgates for New Zealand.
India’s campaign in the tournament ended, relying on Pakistan’s outcome, which didn’t go their way, thus eliminating them from semifinal contention.