Published By: Sayan Paul

ICC Women's World T20 2024: Recalling the Highest-Scoring India vs PAK T20I Clash Ever

As India Women prepare to face PAK Women in the ICC Women's T20 World Cup 2024, we look back at their electrifying encounters, with an emphasis on their highest-scoring match. Mark your calendars for October 6, 2024, at 7:30 PM IST, as this rivalry continues to thrill fans around the globe

When it comes to cricket, few matchups ignite passion, such as India vs. PAK. The stakes are always high, and the excitement is palpable. In the history of T20 Internationals, these two powerhouses have faced off 15 times, with India emerging victorious in 11 of those encounters while PAK has claimed four wins. The upcoming match at Dubai International Cricket Stadium is not just another game; it’s a chance to etch another chapter in this storied rivalry.

A look back: The 2023 showdown

One match that stands out as the most high-scoring T20I between these two rivals occurred on February 12, 2023, at Newlands, Cape Town, in the ICC Women’s World T20. This thrilling encounter saw India chase down a formidable target set by PAK, resulting in a memorable win for the Women in Blue. Let’s dive into the details of that nail-biting contest.

PAK sets a stiff target

PAK batted first, and their captain, Bismah Maroof, played an instrumental role, scoring a brilliant 68 runs. Supported by Naseem Shah, who contributed 43 runs, PAK managed to post a competitive total of 149 for 4 in their 20 overs, with Radha Yadav taking 2 crucial PAK wickets. The innings started shakily, with PAK at 43 for 3, but the resilient partnership between Maroof and Naseem changed the game’s dynamics. They added crucial runs, helping PAK reach their highest total in a T20 World Cup.

India’s wobbly start

Chasing 150, India’s innings began with a hitch. Opening in place of the injured Smriti Mandhana, Yastika Bhatia struggled for rhythm, scoring just 17 runs off 20 balls. Shafali Verma was also contained, contributing 33 runs but failing to settle into her aggressive style. The Indian team found themselves at 67 for 2 at the halfway mark, still needing 83 runs from the last 10 overs. The pressure was mounting, and the Indian dugout was filled with anxious faces.

The Ghosh-Rodrigues partnership: A game-changer

Just when the pressure was on, the stage was set for a thrilling partnership that would turn the tide in India’s favour. With her calm demeanour, Jemimah Rodrigues had been holding the innings together, and alongside her was the dynamic Richa Ghosh (31). The two formed an unbroken stand of 58 runs, showcasing the perfect blend of aggression and finesse.

Richa Ghosh smashing a boundary during her dynamic innings // Picture Courtesy -- @CricCrazyJohns

With 41 runs needed off the last 24 balls, the Indian supporters held their breath. Suddenly, the energy shifted. Ghosh, the gum-chewing teenager fresh off her Under-19 World Cup triumph, unleashed a flurry of boundaries. She struck three consecutive fours off Aiman Anwer, bringing the target down to a manageable 14 runs off 12 balls.

The winning moment

Rodrigues, who had lost her timing earlier in the innings, found her range just in time. With a series of well-timed strokes, she guided India home. The moment of victory came when Rodrigues backed away and sliced a boundary through extra cover, sealing the win with an unbeaten half-century of 53 runs. This innings got her the player of the match award.

A lesson in nerves and skill

The contrast between the two teams was stark. While PAK had begun confidently, a few missed opportunities and lapses in concentration cost them dearly. Fielding mistakes allowed India to seize momentum, a classic example of how crucial discipline can be in high-pressure matches.