WATCH: Phoebe Litchfield hits bull to dismiss Richa Ghosh in 2024 Women’s T20 World Cup

In a nail-biting contest Indian women and Australian women of Women’s T20 World Cup 2024Australia is out because they won by 9 runs. One of the key moments came in the 17th over of the second innings when Australia Phoebe Litchfield it issued a brilliant discharge, it discharged the Indians Richa Ghoshtipping the balance in Australia’s favour. With this victory, Australia became the first team to secure a place in the semifinals of the ongoing tournament.

Release of Richa Ghosh by Phoebe Litchfield

In the middle Megan SchuttOver, Litchfield delivered a game-changing moment with a direct hit that brought Richa Ghosh’s innings to an abrupt halt, dimming India’s chances. Ghosh had clipped the ball towards cover-point and moved quickly to a dangerous single. However, Litchfield, well placed in the field, had just one stump in his eye but showed remarkable accuracy and composure. He bowled straight, caught Ghosh and fell near the crease. With Ghosh managing just one run from 3 balls, this crucial outing swung the momentum in Australia’s favor and put India under a lot of pressure.

Here is the video:

After his brilliant outing against Ghosh, Litchfield made another standout moment on the field, this time with the Australian bowler. Annabelle Sutherland to expel Arundhati Reddy. Litchfield’s keen awareness and quick wits were on full display as he bowled flawlessly, catching Reddy short near his crease. This second out increased the pressure on the Indian batting line-up, and also hampered their chase. Litchfield’s exceptional play was key to Australia’s defensive strategy, contributing heavily to their hard-fought victory.

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India fail to chase despite Harmanpreet Kaur’s heroics

Batting first, Australia posted a total of 151/8 in their allotted 20 overs. Grace Harris, who opened the innings, was the top scorer for the Australians, contributing 40 runs from 41 balls, including five boundaries. Renuka Singh he is India’s leading batsman, taking 2 wickets for 24 runs in his 4 over spell.

In reply, India fought bravely, but managed 142/9 in 20 overs, falling short by just 9 runs. Indian captain Harmanpreet Kaur who was the star batsman, scoring 54 runs off 47 balls, including six boundaries. However, his efforts were not enough to secure a win, as the Australian bowlers kept the pressure on throughout the innings.

In Australia Sophie Molineux was adjudged Man of the Match for his stellar bowling performance. In his spell of 4 overs, he took 2 crucial wickets, helping Australia to defend their total and secure a place in the semi-finals of the tournament.

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This article was originally published on WomenCricket.com, a Cricket Times company.