NEW DELHI: India’s Radha Yadav, who came in as a substitute fielder, pulled off a sensational catch to dismiss Sri Lankan opener Vishmi Gunaratne for a duck, leaving the crowd in awe in the Women’s T20 World Cup Group A game in Dubai.
Positioned at backward point, Radha ran back to her right after Gunaratne went down the track to pacer Renuka Singh to clear the in-field. The ball flew off the edge, but Radha reacted quickly, diving to her left and plucking the ball out of the air.
Her athleticism and safe hands made the catch look effortless, sending Gunaratne back to the pavilion without scoring.The stunning grab provided India a crucial breakthrough, on the second ball of the first over, and lifted her team’s energy on the field.
Earlier, Smriti Mandhana showcased her exceptional batting prowess, while captain Harmanpreet Kaur demonstrated her power-hitting abilities, propelling India to a formidable total of 172 for three.
The foundation for India’s innings was laid by the 98-run partnership between Shafali Verma, who scored 43 off 40 deliveries, and Smriti, who contributed a well-crafted 50 off 38 balls, after the team elected to bat first at the Dubai International Stadium.
Harmanpreet’s unbeaten 52 off just 27 deliveries in the final overs provided the necessary impetus, helping India post the highest total of the tournament so far.