India began their World Cup journey in dramatic fashion from being on the verge of a potential disaster to penning a fighting recovery, they battled through a mid-innings collapse to conclude a 59-run victory at home. Having been 124/6, with grey clouds gathering above the Barsapara Stadium, India seemed set to crumble early. But a gritty 103-run partnership off 99 balls between Amanjot Kaur and Deepti Sharma turned the script around.
Coming into her World Cup debut, Amanjot stood up to the challenge with a gritty 57, a innings that was vital considering she had just returned from injury. Although her selection had evoked surprise more so with India having only one specialist pacer, Kranti Goud it was not with the ball but with the bat where she proved to be the difference. With the help of the dependable Deepti Sharma, who scored 53, the duo cemented the innings and took the score to a respectable 269/8. Sneh Rana’s energetic unbeaten 28 from 15 balls provided a late kick.
Also Read: Hardik Pandya Injury Update: Serious concern rises ahead of ODI series against Australia
Sri Lanka’s chase began with promise. Skipper Chamari Athapaththu’s quick 43 and her 52-run stand with Harshitha Samarawickrama gave hope. But once India’s bowlers tightened the screws, the momentum shifted. Deepti’s all-round brilliance was on display again as she picked up 3/54.
Earlier, an incredible spell of Inoka Ranaweera (4/46) had brought about India’s top-order meltdown. She reduced Harleen Deol, Jemimah Rodrigues, and Harmanpreet Kaur to naught in a single over, sending the home crowd quiet for a while.
Also Read: IND vs WI, Test Series: Date, time, venue, live streaming – All you need to know!
But what might have been a stumbling beginning became an exhibition of resilience and toughness. Amanjot, Deepti, and Sneh showed that India is more than just star power in terms of collective strength. It was a good reminder that this team has the confidence and depth on the bench to bounce back from early setbacks and maintain course in high-pressure tournaments.
