Indian Eves Rally: Deol and Harmanpreet Orchestrate Dominant Warm-up Win Against New Zealand

In the intricate dance of pre-tournament preparations, sometimes the scoreboard offers more than just numbers; it provides a much-needed morale boost. For the India Women`s cricket team, their second warm-up fixture ahead of the ICC Women`s World Cup 2025/26 in Bengaluru did precisely that. After a less-than-ideal start to their warm-up campaign with a substantial loss to England, the Indian squad demonstrated their resilience and strategic depth by convincingly chasing down New Zealand`s total. This four-wicket victory, highlighted by pivotal half-centuries from Harleen Deol and captain Harmanpreet Kaur, has effectively shifted the narrative from doubt to burgeoning confidence.

New Zealand`s Sturdy Stand Amidst Indian Pressure

The day began with a customary rain delay, shortening the contest to 42 overs per side—a common warm-up scenario that tests adaptability as much as skill. New Zealand, winning the toss, elected to bat first, hoping to set a challenging target. However, India`s bowlers had other plans, establishing an early dominance that saw the White Ferns stumble to 38 for 2 by the eighth over. It was a clear statement of intent from the Indian attack, especially after their previous outing.

The recovery for New Zealand was expertly marshalled by the experienced Sophie Devine, who crafted a patient 54, and the promising Amelia Kerr, who scored a diligent 40 off 67 deliveries. Their partnership was crucial in stemming the flow of wickets and slowly building a foundation, taking New Zealand to 132 for 3. They eventually concluded their innings at 232 for 8, a respectable total on a potentially tricky warm-up pitch.

For India, the bowling unit showcased a balanced effort. N Shree Charani was particularly effective, claiming three wickets to peg back the Kiwi middle order. Pace duo Kranti Goud and Arundhati Reddy, the latter making a commendable return after sustaining a leg blow in the prior match, each chipped in with two wickets, demonstrating the depth and variety within India`s bowling arsenal.

India`s Masterclass in the Chase: Deol and Kaur Shine Bright

Chasing 233 runs in 42 overs is no trivial task, even in a warm-up. India`s innings began with promising momentum, reaching 54 without loss in the eighth over, suggesting a smooth sailing. But as cricket often reminds us, tranquility is fleeting. The quick dismissals of Pratika Rawal and Uma Chetry saw India totter at 71 for 2, inviting familiar anxieties.

This was the moment for leadership and composure, and India`s middle order delivered in spades. Harleen Deol, with a fluent 74, and captain Harmanpreet Kaur, displaying her characteristic power with 69 runs, forged a magnificent 132-run third-wicket partnership. This stand was not merely about runs; it was a masterclass in controlled aggression, turning the tide decisively in India`s favour. Their calculated strokes and intelligent running between the wickets systematically dismantled the New Zealand bowling attack, steering India firmly towards the target.

It wouldn`t be a classic cricket match without a late twist, and India provided one. From a dominant position of 203 for 2, the team experienced a mini-collapse, losing four quick wickets to reach 230 for 6. While this might have caused a few nervous glances in the dugout, the damage was largely contained, and India ultimately crossed the finish line with ten balls to spare. A win is a win, and sometimes, a little bit of drama makes it all the more memorable for the spectators (and, presumably, a learning experience for the team).

Building Momentum: A Confident Step Towards the World Cup

This victory is more than just a notch in the win column; it`s a significant psychological boost for the Indian contingent. Warm-up matches are designed to iron out kinks, test combinations, and build rhythm. After a humbling defeat in the first warm-up, this performance against a strong New Zealand side serves as a powerful affirmation of their capabilities. The batting unit`s ability to chase a challenging total, underpinned by stellar individual performances from Deol and Kaur, bodes well for the demanding World Cup schedule.

Furthermore, the bowling efforts, particularly the contributions from Charani, Goud, and Reddy, suggest a well-rounded attack capable of picking up wickets when needed. While the late batting collapse might prompt a discussion or two in team meetings, it`s a minor footnote in an otherwise convincing display of strength. The India Women`s team now strides into the main tournament with renewed confidence, ready to tackle the challenges ahead. The stage is set, and Bengaluru has just witnessed a promising preview of what might unfold on the grander World Cup stage.