Kranti Goud Shines on Debut as India Defeat Pakistan in Women's ODI Clash

India continued their unbeaten run in the Women’s World Cup with a strong win over arch-rivals Pakistan, thanks to a standout debut performance by Kranti Goud and a spirited team effort with the ball. Despite some fielding lapses, India defended their total successfully, highlighting both strengths and areas for improvement.

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Kranti Goud Turns the Tide

After Pakistan made a steady start in their chase, debutant Kranti Goud swung the momentum firmly in India’s favor. She dismissed Pervaiz (33) and returned with outstanding figures of 10-3-20-3, instantly making a mark in her maiden appearance.

Sidra Amin’s Fight in Vain

Pakistan opener Sidra Amin kept the chase alive with a resilient 81 off 106 balls, including the team’s first-ever six against India in Women’s ODI history. However, her efforts were not enough as the rest of the batting order crumbled under pressure.

Sneh Rana dismissed Amin at a crucial juncture, while a brilliant direct hit from skipper Harmanpreet Kaur sent Diana Baig back to the pavilion. Deepti Sharma wrapped up the innings, bowling Pakistan out well short of the target.

Fielding Woes for India

Despite the victory, India’s fielding performance raised concerns. The team dropped three catches—two of them off Sidra Amin—and conceded runs due to misfields. DRS decisions also came under scrutiny, with both reviews used ineffectively on unsuccessful appeals.

Eyes on South Africa

Looking ahead, India will face South Africa on October 9 in Vizag. Captain Harmanpreet Kaur admitted, “The team needs to tighten the basics before the knockout phase.” While the bowling attack remains a major strength and the top order continues to deliver, inconsistency in the middle order and sloppy fielding remain key challenges.

As the tournament progresses, India’s campaign is a blend of dominance and vulnerability — fierce with the ball, promising with the bat, but still searching for perfection in the field.