ICC Women’s World T20: The 5 Best Performances so Far

The 2018 ICC Women’s World T20 has seen some splendid performances – both with the ball and the bat – throughout its group stages. As we await the high-octane knockout phase of the tournament, here is a look back at some of the most memorable performances in the 2018 World Cup so far.

Harmanpreet Kaur (India) – 103 v New Zealand at Providence

The very first match of the 2018 World T20 was lightened up by India’s Harmanpreet Kaur. In a match-winning performance against the No.2 ranked New Zealand, the Indian T20I captain went on to smash a coruscating 103 off 51 balls with seven fours and eight sixes after India opted to bat first at Providence. It was the first T20I hundred by an Indian woman player and helped the team win comfortably by 34 runs.

Deandra Dottin (West Indies) – 5/5 v Bangladesh at Providence

In a sensational performance, West Indian medium pacer Deandra Dottin produced the third-best bowling figures in women’s T20Is and went on to completely dismantle the Bangladesh team. Chasing a modest target of 107, the Bangladeshi women were done in by Dottin’s probing lines and variations and her 5-5 in 3.4 overs eventually resulted in them being shot out for just 60.

Smriti Mandhana (India) – 83 v Australia at Providence

After having a poor start to the World Cup, Indian opener Smriti Mandhana found touch in the most important match against Australia at Providence. Batting first, India was struggling as wickets kept falling. But the left-handed Mandhana kept a cool head and kept smacking the bowling to all parts. She eventually fell on a stylish 83 off 55 balls with nine fours and three sixes and helped India post 167-8. India won by 48 runs.

Natalie Sciver (England) – 3/4 v South Africa at Gros Islet

Against a strong South African batting attack, it was experienced England pacer Natalie Sciver who proved to be the game changer. Batting first on a sporting pitch at Gros Islet, South Africa women were dented by Sciver’s superb sell of 3-4 in 4 overs with one maiden. She was terrific with her lines and moved the ball away subtly. Her spell restricted South Africa to just 85 and England won the game by seven wickets.

Javeria Khan (Pakistan )- 74* v Ireland at Providence

In what was a disappointing World Cup for Pakistan women, this performance was the only saving grace for them. Captain Javeria Khan’s unbeaten 74 off 52 balls with 11 fours against Ireland helped Pakistan win their only game in the 2018 ICC Women’s World T20. The right-handed batswoman was solid and smart all through and her career-best score allowed Pakistan to score 139-6 on the board after batting first and win the game by 38 runs.

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