Why was the Women's World Cup match reduced to 44 overs for New Zealand against India?
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Synopsis
In a dramatic turn of events during the Women's ODI World Cup, rain disrupted the match between New Zealand and India, leading to a revised target of 325 runs for the Kiwis. With impressive innings from Indian players, this match showcased the unpredictability of cricket. Discover how the rain altered the course of this thrilling encounter.
Key Takeaways
- New Zealand must chase a revised target of 325 runs.
- The match was reduced to 44 overs due to rain.
- India scored 340 runs in their innings.
- Smriti Mandhana and Pratika Rawal both hit centuries.
- Rain delays can significantly impact match outcomes.
Navi Mumbai, Oct 23 (NationPress) A fresh bout of rain led to additional delays in the commencement of New Zealand's innings against India during Match 24 of the Women's ODI World Cup at the Dr DY Patil Stadium in Navi Mumbai on Thursday.
New Zealand is now set to pursue a DLS revised target of 325 runs in just 44 overs, with play resuming at 8:25 PM local time. The mandatory overs have been shortened to nine.
Earlier, a light drizzle just after the 48th over of the Indian innings interrupted play, prompting ground staff to deploy covers. Wet patches on the field caused a stoppage of nearly 90 minutes, leading to the match being trimmed to 49 overs per side, and the mid-innings break shortened to just 10 minutes.
The New Zealand team took to the field at 7:50 PM for a single over of bowling as India concluded their innings at 340/3 in 49 overs, thanks to remarkable centuries from Smriti Mandhana and Pratika Rawal, along with a swift 76 from Jemimah Rodrigues.
India had surged to 329 in 48 overs and aimed for a final sprint towards 350 when rain began, sending players to their respective dugouts. The ground staff quickly covered the pitch as the drizzle passed.
Smriti Mandhana showcased an aggressive performance, striking ten boundaries and three sixes in her 109 runs off 95 balls, while Pratika anchored with a stellar 122 off 134 balls, including 13 boundaries and two sixes, as India capitalized on an excellent batting pitch.
India's previously criticized top order excelled, with Jemimah Rodrigues, who replaced Amanjot Kaur in the lineup, contributing a blazing half-century that propelled the innings forward.
India accumulated 75 runs between the 11th and 20th overs and 73 runs in the next set of 10, while achieving 66/1 from overs 31-40.
Initially sent to bat, India faced a sluggish start, reaching 40/0 during the Power-play. However, Mandhana and Rawal accelerated afterward, and India scored 75 runs in the next 10 overs (11th to 20th) and 73 runs between the 21st and 30th overs, followed by 66/1 from overs 31-40.
Point of View
I believe that rain is an unpredictable element in sports, and its impact can dramatically change the outcome of a match, as seen in today's encounter. While the teams must adapt to unforeseen circumstances, the resilience shown by players like Mandhana and Rawal is commendable. This match serves as a reminder of cricket's thrilling unpredictability.
NationPress
23/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What caused the match to be reduced to 44 overs?
The match was reduced to 44 overs due to a brief spell of rain, which led to a delay and a DLS revised target.
What was India's score at the end of their innings?
India finished their innings with a score of 340 runs for 3 wickets in 49 overs.
Who were the standout players for India in this match?
Smriti Mandhana and Pratika Rawal both scored centuries, with Jemimah Rodrigues also contributing a quick half-century.
When did play resume after the rain delay?
Play resumed at 8:25 PM local time after a rain delay.
What was New Zealand's revised target?
New Zealand's revised target was 325 runs in 44 overs.
