In a high-stakes encounter at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai, India rejuvenated their T20 World Cup 2026 campaign with a resounding 72-run victory over Zimbabwe on Thursday (February 26). Entering the 48th match of the tournament under immense pressure following a bruising defeat to South Africa, the Men in Blue delivered a masterclass in aggressive T20 cricket. The win not only kept their semifinal hopes alive but also showcased a team that had successfully digested the ‘shock therapy’ of their previous loss to emerge stronger and more tactically flexible.

Sunil Gavaskar shares insight on gains from South Africa loss after India’s Super 8 success over Zimbabwe

Legendary opener Sunil Gavaskar was quick to point out that India’s dominant performance was a direct result of the psychological jolt received from the Proteas. Speaking on Star Sports, Gavaskar noted that the 76-run loss to South Africa acted as a catalyst for much-needed change.

“The margin of the loss would have shaken them up, and I think they took that shock in a positive way,” Gavaskar observed.

One of the most debated tactical shifts was the inclusion of Sanju Samson at the top of the order to provide a right-left opening combination with Abhishek Sharma. Gavaskar lauded this move, specifically highlighting Samson’s selfless approach. Although Samson fell for 24 off 15 balls, his intent set the tone for a mammoth total.

“Having Sanju Samson at the top helped. He gave the team a flying start—exactly what was needed,” Gavaskar added, noting that the momentum remained intact even after an early wicket fell.

Also WATCH: Brian Bennett’s Beckham-style reflexes deny Jasprit Bumrah a stunning yorker dismissal during T20 World Cup 2026 Super 8 clash

A record-breaking night at Chepauk for India against Zimbabwe

India’s batting unit functioned like a well-oiled machine, posting a staggering 256/4, the second-highest total in T20 World Cup history. What made the feat remarkable was the collective effort; for the first time, India crossed the 250-mark without an individual century. Abhishek rediscovered his touch with a fluent 55, while Hardik Pandya (50* off 23) and Tilak Varma (44* off 16) provided a thunderous finish.

Zimbabwe’s chase was largely a one-man show by Brian Bennett, who fought valiantly for an unbeaten 97. However, the asking rate proved insurmountable against a disciplined Indian attack led by Arshdeep Singh. Arshdeep was the pick of the bowlers, returning figures of 3/24 and becoming India’s highest wicket-taker in T20 World Cup history, surpassing Jasprit Bumrah.

Despite the clinical win, Gavaskar issued a stern warning regarding the upcoming clash against the West Indies on Sunday. Characterizing it as a “completely different game,” he emphasized that India cannot afford to take anything for granted as they head into what is essentially a virtual quarterfinal.

Also READ: India’s T20 World Cup 2026 semi-final qualification scenario after thumping win over Zimbabwe

Former India off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin has delivered a scathing response to Mohammad Amir’s controversial ‘slogger’ tag for Abhishek Sharma, launching an impassioned defence of the young opener following his match-winning fifty against Zimbabwe in the T20 World Cup 2026 Super 8 clash in Chennai.

Speaking on his popular YouTube channel ‘Ash Ki Baat’, Ashwin dismissed the former Pakistan pacer’s assessment and made the stunning claim that Abhishek possesses a better bat swing than his legendary mentor Yuvraj Singh.

Ravichandran Ashwin’s fiery response to Mohammad Amir

The controversy began during the tournament’s group stage when Abhishek registered three consecutive ducks against the USA, Pakistan, and the Netherlands. Amid the lean patch, Amir labelled the left-handed opener a “slogger” and questioned his defensive technique, stating that quality bowling attacks would expose his limitations at the international level .

However, after Abhishek silenced his critics with a blazing 55 off just 30 balls against Zimbabwe – featuring four boundaries and four sixes—Ashwin took to his YouTube channel to set the record straight .

“There is a video of Mohammad Amir doing the rounds, where he called Abhishek Sharma a slogger. I just want to make one thing clear: you can say anything about his game, but he is not a slogger. He has one of the most enviable bat swings in the game today,” Ashwin declared.

The former India spinner, who retired from international cricket in December 2024, went a step further by comparing Abhishek’s technique to his illustrious mentor.

“We all know Yuvraj Singh is his mentor. He has probably got a better bat swing than him as well. You cannot get a better bat swing than that. Whenever Abhishek strikes the ball, it goes very far. So people can mistake him for being a slogger. The one thing Abhishek has been guilty of is showing intent on every ball,” Ashwin added.

Abhishek endured a nightmare start to his T20 World Cup campaign, registering ducks against the USA, Pakistan and the Netherlands – a run compounded by a stomach infection that required hospitalisation and caused significant weight loss. He missed the Namibia match entirely before managing just 15 off 12 balls in India’s heavy defeat to South Africa.

However, against Zimbabwe at the MA Chidambaram Stadium on February 26, Abhishek finally delivered the knock India had been waiting for. Opening alongside Sanju Samson, he reached his fifty in just 26 balls, setting the platform for India’s mammoth 256/4. His innings, combined with a late blitz from Tilak Varma and Hardik Pandya, proved decisive as India secured a crucial 72-run victory to keep their semifinal hopes alive.

Amir’s clarification regarding his slogger remark for Abhishek

Following the backlash, Amir had eralier clarified his remarks, explaining that his comments were technical observations rather than personal criticism. Speaking after India’s defeat to South Africa, the left-arm pacer emphasised that he rates Abhishek as one of the finest young talents in the game.

“I was talking about him from the point of view of a bowler. I was talking about his technique. People felt bad because I used the word slogger,” Amir told a Pakistani TV channel. “By that, I meant his technique is such that a good team, a bunch of good bowlers, can trap him. Look at the 14 runs he scored, he scored all of them on one side. The balls he hit were bad balls. But, when Rabada started bowling well, he was not able to figure it out.”

Amir also sent a public message to the young Indian batter, advising him to incorporate patience into his naturally aggressive game. “As a senior player, if my message goes to him, I will tell him: Your technique gets exposed in international cricket. If you can show some patience and play the ball on its merit, then it will be better. He has the skills, but it depends on him how well he will utilise them.” 

Also WATCH: Mitchell Starc can’t contain laughter as Harmanpreet Kaur’s scoop attempt misses the mark during AUS-W vs IND-W 2nd ODI

Ashwin’s technical advice to Abhishek

Beyond defending Abhishek, Ashwin offered constructive technical advice, urging the young batter to prioritise timing over brute force. “Abhishek doesn’t have to give power on his shots. If anyone is talking to him, just tell him about the importance of timing the ball properly,” the veteran spinner advised.

This emphasis on timing aligns with Ashwin’s broader assessment that Abhishek’s natural gifts – particularly his bat swing – are world-class. The former off-spinner has previously identified Abhishek as one of two “puzzles” opposition teams must solve to beat India in the T20 World Cup, alongside mystery spinner Varun Chakravarthy.

Also READ: Virat Kohli’s dream list – Qualities he wishes to inherit from SRK, Dhoni, Ronaldo, Messi, Tendulkar, Taylor Swift and The Rock

In a tournament filled with high-voltage drama and record-breaking performances, sometimes the most memorable moments happen off the field. Following India’s commanding 73-run victory over Zimbabwe in the T20 World Cup Super 8 clash at the MA Chidambaram Stadium on Thursday, young batter Tilak Varma captured millions of hearts with a heartwarming gesture – recording a special video message for Zimbabwe pacer Brad Evans’ sister, who is a massive fan of the Indian cricketer .

Brad Evan’s sister’s special demand from Tilak Varma

After the match concluded, as players from both sides mingled on the field in the traditional post-match interaction, Zimbabwe pacer Brad Evans approached Tilak with a unique request. Evans’s sister Rebecca, back home, is a huge admirer of the young Indian batter and had been begging her brother for a special video message.

“My sister is a very big fan of his, so she asked if she could get a video message from him,” Evans told ICC, capturing the moment that would soon go viral across social media platforms.

Tilak, ever humble and grounded despite his rising stardom, responded positively without a moment’s hesitation.

Tilak Varma fulfils Brad Evan’s sister demand

What followed was a warm, genuine message that has since won hearts across the cricketing world. In the video, Tilak addressed Rebecca directly with words that reflected both humility and sportsmanship.

“Hi Rebecca, thank you for being a big fan. It means a lot. Hope to see you when I am in Zimbabwe. I will meet you, and your brother is amazing. He has bowled really well, and I will see you very soon. Thanks once again,” Tilak said in the video message.

Evans later revealed just how much the message would mean to his sister. “She actually messaged me only the other day asking for a message. She is going to be very embarrassed, but she has got the message now,” he concluded with a smile.

Tilak’s match-winning performance against Zimbabwe

The request came shortly after Tilak had produced a breathtaking performance that helped propel India to the second-highest total in T20 World Cup history – a mammoth 256/4. Batting at an unfamiliar No. 6 position after being shuffled down the order due to Sanju Samson’s inclusion, the left-hander smashed 44 runs off just 16 deliveries at a staggering strike rate of 275.

His innings, which included 4 fours and 6 sixes, came in a crucial 84-run partnership with Hardik Pandya off just 31 balls. The late blitz took the game away from Zimbabwe and ensured India posted a total that proved far too many for the Chevrons, who were eventually restricted to 183.

Speaking after the match, Tilak opened up about his new role in the batting order. “I always say that whatever team needs, I am up for it. I have done the same role since last four years in IPL for Mumbai Indians and also in few games for the Indian team, so I am up for it. I can adjust,” he said during the post-match press conference.

He added, “I was just waiting for one innings, so I am really grateful to God for that it has come at the right time. I am pretty confident now that going forward I can win the games for the team.”

Also READ: Fans mourn tragic demise of Rinku Singh’s father during T20 World Cup 2026

Fans praise Tilak’s humility

The video quickly spread across social media platforms, with fans praising Tilak for his humility and warmth. Many noted that in an era where cricketers are often inaccessible to fans, such gestures restore faith in the human side of the sport.

The interaction also highlighted the unique camaraderie that develops between opponents during multi-nation tournaments, where brief on-field battles give way to lasting off-field friendships.

What’s next for Tilak and Team India?

With this victory, India kept their semifinal hopes alive, setting up a virtual knockout against West Indies at Eden Gardens in Kolkata on March 1. Tilak’s form, having registered 151 runs in six outings at an average of 30.20 and strike rate of 142.45, will be crucial to India’s chances of progressing further.

Also WATCH: Brian Bennett’s Beckham-style reflexes deny Jasprit Bumrah a stunning yorker dismissal during T20 World Cup 2026 Super 8 clash

The Ranji Trophy Final between Karnataka and Jammu & Kashmir reached a boiling point on Day 4 at the Hubli Cricket Ground, blending elite skill with high-voltage drama. Following a controversial Day 2 incident where J&K captain Paras Dogra head-butted substitute fielder KV Aneesh, the cricketing gods seemed to reserve a special kind of justice for the final innings.

Karnataka’s pace spearhead Prasidh Krishna, who had been the target of Dogra’s aggression earlier in the match, finally settled the score with the ball. In a high-stakes battle of momentum, Prasidh produced a delivery that will be remembered long after the trophy is lifted.

Prasidh Krishna’s unplayable ripper rattles Paras Dogra’s stumps

The dismissal of Dogra was a masterclass in deception and execution, providing Karnataka with the breakthrough they desperately needed to stay alive in the final. Coming in for a fiery spell, Krishna, during the 21st over, delivered a ‘peach’ that effectively dismantled the J&K captain’s defense and his presence on the field. The delivery, clocked at a searing pace, was angled in on a fullish length toward the off-stump, forcing Dogra to commit forward from his middle-stump stance.

As Dogra reached out to push at the ball, it held its line with surgical precision, skipping past the outside edge of his bat to kiss the top of the off-stump. The ‘cracker of a delivery’ left the veteran completely rooted to the crease, beaten for pace with his feet stuck in cement. Departing for 16 (59), Dogra could only look back at his flattened woodwork as the Hubli crowd erupted in a deafening roar, celebrating a wicket that felt like pure redemption for the Karnataka side.

Here’s the video:

Also WATCH: Auqib Nabi falls in unusual fashion to Prasidh Krishna in Ranji Trophy Final 2026

Jammu and Kashmir eye Ranji Trophy maiden title as Karnataka stumble under Auqib Nabi’s fiery spell

The Ranji Trophy 2026 final at the Hubballi Cricket Ground has taken a decisive turn as Jammu & Kashmir find themselves on the verge of a historic maiden title. After piling up a massive first-innings total of 584, built on Shubham Pundir’s magnificent 121 and half-centuries from five other top-order batters, J&K’s bowling unit led by the sensational Auqib Nabi dismantled Karnataka’s star-studded lineup.

Nabi’s hostile opening spell, which accounted for the crucial wickets of KL Rahul and Karun Nair, left the eight-time champions reeling, eventually bundling them out for a mere 293. Despite a valiant 160 from Mayank Agarwal, who fought a lone battle for the hosts, Karnataka conceded a staggering 291-run first-innings lead. By tea on Day 4, J&K have tightened their grip even further, reaching 155/4 in their second innings so far to extend their overall lead to a mammoth 446 runs.

Qamran Iqbal‘s steady 71 and a brisk cameo from Abdul Samad have effectively batted Karnataka out of the contest, leaving the home side staring at a hopeless survival mission on the final day. With the pitch showing variable bounce and assisting the spinners, J&K captain Dogra seems content to bat Karnataka deep into the evening before a possible declaration.

For Karnataka, the dream of ending their 11-year trophy drought is fading fast as they struggle to find answers to J&K’s relentless aggression and discipline. The visitors now need only to avoid a catastrophic collapse to ensure they lift the coveted trophy by virtue of their massive first-innings advantage.

Also WATCH: Auqib Nabi removes KL Rahul with peach of a delivery in Ranji Trophy final

The T20 World Cup 2026 has entered its most volatile phase, where the line between glory and a flight home is paper-thin. Following a sobering defeat to South Africa, India found their rhythm at Chepauk, dismantling Zimbabwe by 72 runs to keep their title defense alive.

Left-arm pacer Arshdeep Singh, who derailed Zimbabwe’s chase with a clinical 3/24, emerged not just as the wrecker-in-chief, but as the team’s most candid voice. In a revealing post-match exchange with media after Zimbabwe game, Arshdeep shifted the focus from the immediate victory to a grander prophecy. His words didn’t just target the upcoming virtual knockout against the West Indies; they looked straight toward a rematch with the Proteas in the final.

Arshdeep Singh reveals the team India will face in the T20 World Cup 2026 final

After the dust settled in Chennai, Arshdeep’s confidence was palpable as he discussed the tournament’s trajectory and India’s likely destination. While the world was focused on the ‘win-or-go-home’ clash against the West Indies at Eden Gardens, Arshdeep was already plotting a revenge mission against South Africa.

He acknowledged the favour the Proteas did for India by defeating the Windies earlier that day, a result that returned control of the semi-final race back to the Indian camp. “They played very good cricket, and thanks to them for giving us the chance to decide our own result in the next match. It was fun watching their match, and we’ll try to beat them in the final,” Arshdeep boldly stated, signaling that the Indian dressing room views a final showdown with South Africa as an inevitability. His assertion showcased a team that has moved past the trauma of their earlier loss, now viewing the Proteas not as an obstacle, but as the final boss they are destined to overcome on the grandest stage of them all.

Also READ: Virat Kohli’s dream list: Qualities he wishes to inherit from SRK, Dhoni, Ronaldo, Messi, Tendulkar, Taylor Swift and The Rock

Arshdeep unveils Papa’s curses and the Road to Kolkata for Super 8 game vs West Indies

The tension of the tournament isn’t confined to the pitch, as Arshdeep shared a hilarious anecdote about watching the South Africa-West Indies game from his hotel room. With families in tow, the atmosphere became an animated affair as his father, Darshan Singh, took the West Indies’ power-hitting quite personally.

“My family was in the room and when the West Indies batters were hitting, papa gaali dete the ki kya kar raha hai (father was cursing what are they doing). So I was like, it’s okay, don’t be angry and just enjoy the match and hope South Africa win!” Arshdeep recounted with a grin, highlighting the intense emotional investment of the families.

This domestic drama served as a backdrop to the analytical preparations for the March 1 clash at Eden Gardens. Regarding the explosive West Indies lineup, Arshdeep noted, “It’s not like they have only one gear. Today, if you look, they played really nicely in the middle as well. They took the game deep and made around 180 runs. So I guess they can also adapt according to the situation. We’ll see how the wicket plays and what the conditions are like, but the focus right now is on recovery.”

Also READ: T20 World Cup 2026: India vs West Indies Super 8 Ticket Prices, Booking Details

As India fight to keep their T20 World Cup 2026 semifinal hopes alive, star all-rounder Hardik Pandya is winning hearts both on and off the field. While his blazing fifties and crucial wickets have propelled India through critical matches, his blossoming romance with girlfriend Mahieka Sharma has emerged as the tournament’s most charming subplot – capturing millions of hearts across social media platforms.

Hardik Pandya’s ‘flying kiss’ heats up Chepauk after his match-winning fifty

The most viral moment of India’s campaign came during the must-win Super 8 clash against Zimbabwe at the MA Chidambaram Stadium on February 26. After smashing a breathtaking 23-ball fifty – his second half-century of the edition – Pandya celebrated his milestone in style by blowing flying kisses to the stands, directed squarely at Mahieka Sharma, who was present cheering for him.

The moment, captured live by broadcast cameras, quickly spread across social media platforms.

Here’s the video:

The way Hardik Pandya gave a flying kiss to his girlfriend Mahika Sharma after smashing 50 (23) vs Zim in the T20 World Cup 2026. 🔥

Giving Neymar vibes — Hardik is truly the Neymar of cricket. 💀 pic.twitter.com/Kmmke4TENU

— Sonu (@Cricket_live247) February 27, 2026

Pandya finished the innings in spectacular fashion, hitting two consecutive sixes off the last two balls to reach his fifty and propel India to a mammoth 256/4. Tilak Varma, standing at the non-striker’s end, reminded Pandya of his milestone, prompting the all-rounder to raise his bat before delivering the romantic gesture .

During India’s final group-stage match against the Netherlands on February 18, he was also spotted blowing a kiss to Mahieka after playing a crucial 30-run knock at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad.

Mahieka Sharma’s charming presence: From hotel lobby to T20 World Cup stands

Pandya and Mahieka’s relationship was officially confirmed in late 2025, more than a year after his divorce from Natasa Stankovic . Since then, the model has been a constant presence at India’s World Cup matches, travelling to every venue where the team plays.

Mahieka Sharma on Hardik Pandya six#INDvsZIM #T20WorldCup #T20WC2026 #T20WorldCup26 pic.twitter.com/YMgj6P3IiL

— Achyut Kumar Dwivedi (@dwivediachyut41) February 26, 2026

Even before the tournament began, the couple made headlines when they were spotted walking hand-in-hand through the team hotel lobby – with Pandya famously wearing a bathrobe at the time. The moment, captured on video, amused fans and demonstrated the couple’s comfort with public displays of affection.

Mahieka, a 25-year-old model and fitness enthusiast from Gujarat, has built a substantial social media following. Beyond her glamorous profession, she holds a degree in economics and finance and has worked with prestigious brands including Tanishq, Vivo and Uniqlo.

Also READ: T20 World Cup 2026 – India vs West Indies Super 8 Ticket Prices, Booking Details

How Mahieka transformed Hardik’s cricket?

Beyond the viral moments and romantic gestures, Mahieka’s influence on Pandya’s professional life has been equally significant. In candid interviews during the World Cup, Pandya credited his girlfriend with helping him rediscover his passion for cricket.

“A lot of credit goes to the loved ones which I had. Special mention to my partner as well. She’s been nothing but the best to me since she has entered my life and a lot of great things have happened since she has arrived,” Pandya told the media.

He revealed that conversations with Mahieka about the sport brought back what he called his “childhood enthusiasm.” This renewed mindset has translated into performances – Pandya has scored 155 runs in six innings at a strike rate exceeding 150, while also claiming five crucial wickets. His recent Player of the Match performance against Zimbabwe exemplified this resurgence.

Also READ: Virat Kohli’s dream list – Qualities he wishes to inherit from SRK, Dhoni, Ronaldo, Messi, Tendulkar, Taylor Swift and The Rock

After India‘s commanding 72-run victory over Zimbabwe on Thursday, cricket icon Yuvraj Singh took to social media to celebrate the standout performers who kept India’s T20 World Cup 2026 semi-final hopes alive. In a series of heartfelt Instagram stories, the legendary all-rounder highlighted the key contributions of Abhishek Sharma, Hardik Pandya, and Arshdeep Singh, whose collective brilliance powered India to a record-breaking total and a clinical defensive display at the M.A. Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai.

Letting the bat talk: Abhishek Sharma’s return to form

Abhishek, who had struggled earlier in the tournament, rediscovered his touch with a blazing 55 off just 30 balls. His innings, which included four boundaries and four towering sixes, provided the early momentum India desperately needed in this must-win clash. Yuvraj, a long-time mentor to the young left-hander, was quick to notice the poise behind the performance. Sharing a shot of Sharma mid-stroke, Yuvraj noted: “The best chatter is when you let the bat do all the talking! Good innings sir Abhishek keep pushing!”

Total control: Hardik Pandya’s death-over masterclass

Pandya reinforced his reputation as one of the world’s premier finishers, hammering an unbeaten 50 off only 23 deliveries. His explosive knock—featuring four sixes—helped India post a massive 256/4, the highest total of the tournament thus far and the second-highest in T20 World Cup history. Recognizing Pandya’s ability to dominate the final overs, Yuvraj posted an image of the all-rounder connecting with a powerful hit, captioning it: “Superb power-hitting and in total control! Wrapping up the innings in style”

Also READ: Fans mourn tragic demise of Rinku Singh’s father during T20 World Cup 2026

Triple delight: Arshdeep Singh’s clinical bowling

While India’s batters set the stage, Arshdeep Singh ensured the defense was equally relentless. The left-arm speedster was the pick of the bowlers, returning impressive figures of 3 for 24 from his four overs. Arshdeep’s ability to strike at critical moments—including the vital wicket of Zimbabwe captain Sikandar Raza—effectively derailed the chase. Yuvraj celebrated the pacer’s “Triple Delight” with a celebratory story: “Triple delight for the speedster! Striking at the right moments and keeping the pressure on”

With this emphatic win, India now moves to a virtual quarter-final against the West Indies on Sunday.

Also READ: India’s T20 World Cup 2026 semi-final qualification scenario after thumping win over Zimbabwe

The Australia-India Women’s International Series recently provided a moment of pure, unscripted comedy that reminded fans why cricket is as much about the camaraderie as it is about the competition. In the heat of the match, Indian captain Harmanpreet Kaur decided to unleash a high-risk innovation that ended with a resounding ‘clink’ rather than a ‘crack.’ As the ball made unexpected contact with her protective gear, the focus shifted from the pitch to the commentary box. There, Australian fast-bowler Mitchell Starc was caught in a moment of genuine hilarity, unable to mask his amusement at the absurdity of the play. It was a rare, lighthearted crossover between legends that immediately went viral among the viewers.

Mitchell Starc bursts into laughter as Harmanpreet Kaur’s scoop attempt falls apart

The incident unfolded during the 38.5 over when Megan Schutt delivered a ball that was a fraction short outside the off-stump. Harmanpreet, looking to accelerate the run rate, attempted a cheeky scoop shot to guide the ball over the keeper, but the timing went completely awry. Instead of finding the boundary, the ball ricocheted directly onto her helmet grille, creating a ‘funny shot’ that forced a mandatory check from the team physio.

Watching the replays in the commentary booth, Starc couldn’t hide a chuckle as he suggested adding the hit to the bowler’s ‘tall’ of batters she has ‘badged.’ His fellow commentators joined in the laughter, teasing that ‘badging’ a batter might be the only way Schutt can assert such dominance, especially since Kaur ‘cost herself a couple of runs’ with the failed attempt. Despite the heavy impact, Harmanpreet was all smiles after the check, showing she was perfectly fine and even seeing the humor in the failed experiment.

Here’s the video:

That’s … not normally how this shot is supposed to go 😅#AUSvIND pic.twitter.com/02VBRKseNP

— 7Cricket (@7Cricket) February 27, 2026

Also READ: Here’s why Australian skipper Sophie Molineux is not playing today’s AUS-W vs IND-W 2nd ODI

Harmanpreet Kaur’s gritty fifty and lower-order surge push India to 251 in Hobart

In a high-stakes second ODI at the Bellerive Oval on February 27, 2026, India’s ‘Women in Blue’ recovered from a mid-innings wobble to post a competitive 251/9 against Australia. After electing to bat first on a surface offering variable bounce, India enjoyed a flourishing start with Pratika Rawal (52) and Smriti Mandhana (31) stitching together a solid 78-run opening stand.

However, the momentum shifted dramatically when Rawal was involved in a controversial run-out shortly after reaching her half-century, triggering a collapse that saw India slip from a position of strength to a precarious 162/6. Captain Harmanpreet , battling a lingering knee injury, anchored the rescue mission with a resilient 54 off 70 balls, showing immense composure as wickets tumbled at the other end. She found crucial support from the lower order, particularly from Kashvee Gautam (25) and Kranti Goud (19), who added vital runs during the death overs to frustrate the Australian bowling attack.

For the hosts, Annabel Sutherland, Ashleigh Gardner and Alana King were the pick of the bowlers, each claiming two wickets to keep the pressure high. India eventually crossed the 250-run mark on the very last ball of the innings, courtesy of an overthrow that allowed debutant Vaishnavi Sharma and Sree Charani to scramble for a second run. With the pitch expected to assist spinners under the lights, India will be banking on their bowling unit to defend this total and level the three-match series. The match currently rests in a delicate balance, with Australia needing a steady start to counter India’s rejuvenated energy.

Also READ: Will Indian superstars feature in Women’s Bangladesh Premier League? BCB gives update

This article was first published at WomenCricket.com, a Cricket Times company.

The second ODI between India Women and Australia Women at the Blundstone Arena in Hobart took a dramatic and disappointing turn for the visitors on Friday. After a promising start in their quest to level the series, the Women in Blue were left reeling following a disastrous brain fade involving set batter Pratika Rawal and skipper Harmanpreet Kaur. What should have been a foundation-building knock ended in a chaotic run-out that shifted the momentum entirely in favour of the clinical Australians.

Pratika Rawal’s costly mix-up ends in her run-out dismissal in 2nd ODI

The defining moment of the Indian innings occurred in the 23rd over. Rawal, who had been the backbone of the top order, had just reached a well-constructed half-century. She looked comfortable against the spin of Alana King, but the pressure of the Australian fielding eventually forced a fatal error in judgment.

At 22.2 overs, King tossed one up on off-stump. Rawal drove the ball firmly toward mid-on and immediately called for a single, sprinting down the pitch with conviction. However, at the non-striker’s end, Harmanpreet remained rooted to her crease, turning her back on the play after deciding the run was too risky.

By the time Rawal realized the lack of communication, she was three-quarters of the way down the track. With no hope of returning, Rawal didn’t even attempt a desperate dive; she simply watched as Annabel Sutherland gathered the ball cleanly and fired it to Beth Mooney, who whipped off the bails. Rawal departed for 52 off 81 balls, an innings decorated with six boundaries that deserved a much more dignified end.

Here’s the video:

The stuff of nightmares!

Pratika Rawal was set on 52 before this horror run out. #AUSvIND pic.twitter.com/SyWsDmXFS0

— cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) February 27, 2026

Also READ: Here’s why Australian skipper Sophie Molineux is not playing today’s AUS-W vs IND-W 2nd ODI

Middle-order collapse leaves India scrambling for a fighting total against Australia

Rawal’s dismissal was the catalyst for a significant batting collapse. India had started steadily, with Rawal and Smriti Mandhana (31) putting on a 78-run opening stand. However, once Mandhana was cleaned up by Ashleigh Gardner, the floodgates opened.

By the 43rd over, India found themselves at 191/6. While Harmanpreet remained unbeaten on 35, the lack of support and the psychological blow of the Rawal run-out meant India struggled to reach a competitive total on a Hobart surface that demanded more. The brainfade didn’t just cost a wicket; it cost India the chance to put the world champions under genuine scoreboard pressure.

Also READ: ICC confirms fixtures of Women’s T20 World Cup 2026; India and Pakistan to face off in Edgbaston

This article was first published at WomenCricket.com, a Cricket Times company.

Colombo’s R. Premadasa Stadium is gearing up for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 Super 8 clash as England take on New Zealand on February 27.

So far, England have looked sharp in this phase, registering convincing wins over Sri Lanka and Pakistan. Their campaign has been clinical, though questions remain around Jos Buttler’s form with the bat after a string of low scores. The reassuring sign for England has been skipper Harry Brook’s explosive century against Pakistan, which has strengthened the middle order and boosted confidence within the camp.

New Zealand’s journey hasn’t been as straightforward. A rain-hit fixture against Pakistan denied them momentum early on, but they bounced back impressively with a dominant win over Sri Lanka. A win in the upcoming contest will take the Blackcaps to the top in Group 2, along with a guaranteed semifinal spot.

R. Premadasa Stadium Pitch Report

The R. Premadasa Stadium is known for a pitch that changes character as the game unfolds. Early on, the black-soil surface offers reliable bounce, allowing batters to trust the carry and play their shots with confidence. But as the match moves forward, the wicket tends to slow down and grip, bringing spinners firmly into the contest. The middle overs, in particular, often become a testing phase, with turn and occasional variable bounce challenging stroke-makers.

Fast bowlers usually don’t get much help in terms of seam or swing, even under lights. That makes the powerplay crucial for batters, who need to make the most of the harder new ball before conditions get tougher. Once the ball gets older and the surface begins to tire, scoring freely becomes a bigger challenge, especially against quality spin. It’s a venue where smart pacing of an innings can make all the difference.

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R. Premadasa Stadium T20I Stats and Records

• Matches played: 65
• Matches won batting first: 28
• Matches won bowling first: 36
• Average 1st innings score: 145
• Average 2nd innings score: 129
• Highest total recorded: 215/5 (19.4 Overs) by Bangladesh vs Sri Lanka
• Lowest total recorded: 80/10 (17.2 Overs) by Afghanistan vs England
• Highest score chased: 215/5 (19.4 Overs) by Bangladesh vs Sri Lanka
• Lowest score defended: 115/6 (20 Overs) by South Africa vs Sri Lanka

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