India lost to New Zealand by 58 runs in their opening match of the 2024 Women’s T20 World Cup in Dubai.

Written By

Vishnu Foujdar

This defeat has severely impacted India's chances of qualifying for the semi-finals for the fourth consecutive time.

India is in Group A, known as the ‘Group of Death,’ which includes Pakistan, Sri Lanka, and defending champions Australia.

New Zealand opted to bat first, scoring 160 runs for 4 wickets; Suzie Bates and Georgia Plimmer had a strong start.

India's bowlers Renuka Singh (2/27), Asha Sobhana (1/22), and Arundhati Reddy (1/28) were the few positives.

India struggled with the bat, all out for 102 runs; Harmanpreet Kaur was the top scorer with only 15 runs.

New Zealand's bowlers Rosemary Mair (4/19) and Lea Tahuhu (3/15) dominated the Indian batting lineup

India currently sits in fourth place in their group with a Net Run Rate (NRR) of -2.900. Upcoming matches include facing Pakistan on October 6, Sri Lanka on October 9, and Australia on October 13

To qualify for the semi-finals, India must win against Pakistan and Sri Lanka, ideally by large margins.

If India loses to Australia but wins the other two matches, they will need New Zealand to lose at least two of their last three matches for qualification chances based on NRR.