Women’s T20 World Cup 2020: Day 11, Round-up

The last two matches of the Women’s T20 World Cup 2020 turned out to be a disappointment for many fans as no result was achieved in both the matches. In the first encounter of the day between Thailand Women and Pakistan Women, the former put up an impressive batting display for the first time in their World Cup campaign. The opening pair of Nattakan Chantam and Nattaya Boochatham stitched a 93-run partnership for the opening wicket against a formidable Pakistan bowling force.

Chantam, who is tagged as the most talented batswoman amid the Thailand Women’s batting force, scored a brilliant half-century to increase her side’s chances of clinching the game. Chantam amassed third half-century of her T20I career and scored 56 runs off 50 deliveries. She was well assisted by Boochatham, who gathered 44 runs of 40 balls and kept the scoreboard ticking.

Along with Chantam-Boochatham’s opening stand, cameos by Chanida Sutthiruang and Nannapat Koncharoenkai propelled Thailand to a competitive total of 150 runs in their stipulated 20 overs. Thailand Women, who relatively were a relatively inexperienced side, were unfazed by Pakistan Women’s bowling force. Diana Baig, Anam Amin and Nida Dar scalped a wicket each but the trio of unable to mount any pressure whatsoever on Thailand’s batting force.

India and England will lock horns in the first semi-final

Thailand Women’s decision of electing to bat after winning the toss did not go down the drain as Sornnarin Tippoch-led side was successful in delivering their best batting performances so far in the tournament. Thailand Women threw the kitchen sink to ensure that they culminate their World Cup campaign on a high by defeating the Women in Green.

It was anticipated to be a thrilling run-chase but rain turned out to be a spoilsport after a drizzle started turning out into a steady shower. The game was called off eventually and both the sides had to share points. Pakistan Women skipper Javeria Khan was also in awe of Thailand’s fearless batting approach and lauded their efforts post the game got abandoned.

The second game of the day also turned out to be a disappointment as the encounter between West Indies Women and South Africa Women was also called off due to continuous rain in Sydney. Post the fiasco in the two ultimate matches of the group stage, the world got to know the semi-final line-ups of the mega-event.

The first semi-final will be played between India and England at Sydney Cricket Ground on March 5, Thursday. While South Africa and Australia will lock horns in the second semi-final of the tournament on the same day and at the same venue.