Following an ODI series whitewash against Australia, India Women displayed an assertive bowling performance, led by 19-year-old Titas Sadhu, who swiftly claimed three wickets in her initial overs.
Despite this, the team’s fielding deficiencies were evident as a miscommunication between Jemimah Rodrigues and Renuka Thakur mirrored a well-known Pakistan fielding blunder.
Australia’s Ellyse Perry and the in-form Phoebe Litchfield collaborated to stabilize their team after an early setback, with Litchfield receiving a stroke of luck in the 12th over.
A reminiscent mishap unfolded when Indian cricketers Renuka and Jemimah’s fielding error echoed memories of Shoaib Malik and Saeed Ajmal’s miscommunication against the West Indies, granting Chris Gayle an extra chance.
In the 12th over, Deepti Sharma delivered a fuller delivery on the middle and off stump line, prompting Litchfield to attempt a reverse sweep. Unfortunately, she mistimed the shot, resulting in a top-edge that just eluded the grasp of the fielder positioned at short third man, Renuka.
— Travis Head (@TravisHead8441) January 5, 2024
Jemimah, stationed at backward point, nearly reached the ball, but hesitated upon seeing Renuka’s pursuit. Consequently, the ball fell between the two fielders, prompting them to exchange looks.
This incident drew comparisons to the infamous Pakistan fielding blunder involving Malik and Ajmal against the West Indies in 2008/09, sparking reactions across social media, particularly on Twitter.
