India relied on a strong performance from their middle-order during Day 1 of the one-off Women’s Test at the Wankhede Stadium to recover from the setback of losing two early wickets. They managed to surpass 400 runs before the day’s end, with four wickets still intact.
Yet, their dominance could have been nearly unassailable had it not been for captain Harmanpreet Kaur repeating a mistake reminiscent of a previous blunder that had dashed India’s hopes of a global title earlier in the year. Harmanpreet came to bat when the score was 162/3, following an aggressive 69 by debutant Satheesh Shubha.
Despite Jemimah Rodrigues departing after her solid 68, the experienced Harmanpreet, partnering with Yastika Bhatia, steered India’s innings back on track. Their partnership of 116 frustrated the English team, but Harmanpreet’s dismissal in the 63rd over proved pivotal.
She attempted a single off a Charlie Dean delivery to reach her maiden Test fifty, but Danni Wyatt’s swift fielding prevented any chance of a run. Unfortunately, Harmanpreet’s attempt to return to the crease saw her bat stuck outside the line, leading to her dismissal upon review, leaving her visibly distraught as she left the field despite Yastika’s efforts to console her.
And again Harmanpreet Kaur gets out similar fashion…#HarmanpreetKaur #INDvENG pic.twitter.com/lX4QZLnYAl
— Ajay Ahire (@Ajayahire_cric) December 14, 2023
This incident echoed Harmanpreet’s earlier unexpected dismissal in the World T20 2023 semi-final against Australia. Despite being well-set on 52 and with the team needing only 40 runs from over five overs, her wicket triggered a collapse, resulting in India losing a potentially winning game. Consequently, social media swiftly criticized the Indian Women’s team captain for what was perceived as a careless approach at the crease.