India looked set for a comfortable win before rain struck again in Mumbai. The Women’s World Cup group clash against Bangladesh began late, was shortened twice, and finally ended in a washout. Yet, in the little play possible, Radha Yadav and Smriti Mandhana ensured India dominated every phase. Bangladesh struggled to 119 for 9 in 27 overs, and India began their chase brightly at 57 for 0 in nine overs before the rain took over again.
The interruptions ruined India’s momentum, but Radha’s performance stood tall. Playing her first match of the tournament, she picked up 3 for 30 with smart flight and control. Shree Charani supported well with 2 for 23, keeping Bangladesh under pressure throughout. The only setback for India came when Pratika Rawal injured her knee while fielding and missed the chase. Her availability for the semi-final against Australia now hangs in doubt.
With the points shared, India’s focus will quickly shift to recovery. Still, the control and intent shown before the washout reflected the team’s sharp rhythm heading into the knockouts.
Rain Spoils India’s Dominance After Strong Start
The weather dictated the day from the very beginning. A two-hour delay reduced the contest to 43 overs per side, and another stoppage midway shortened it further to 27 overs. India’s bowlers, however, wasted no time asserting control. Renuka Singh struck first with a classic inswinger that uprooted Sumaiya Akter, setting the tone.
From the other end, Deepti Sharma joined in, removing Rubya Haider with a clever change of angle. Bangladesh’s top order failed to adapt to the seam movement and controlled spin, losing regular wickets. By the halfway mark, they were crawling without momentum, unable to find boundaries.
When play resumed after the long delay, Bangladesh looked unsettled. Only Sharmin Akhter and Sobhana Mostary showed resistance, adding 38 for the fourth wicket. But Radha’s tight lines soon broke their stand, and Charani’s flight trapped batters into false shots. The rain returned soon after, ending India’s smooth start. The 57 without loss at the top suggested how confident the chase was becoming before nature intervened.
Radha Yadav and Charani Lead Spin Control
India’s left-arm spin duo owned the middle overs with accuracy and control. Radha Yadav, returning to the XI, bowled with smart variations and perfect trajectory. Her deliveries dipped late, forcing Bangladesh’s middle order into mistakes. She removed Shorna Akter, Nahida Akter, and Rabeya Khan to finish with figures of 3 for 30.
Shree Charani, continuing her fine form from earlier matches, struck twice in her five overs. Her wicket of Sharmin through a mistimed slog-sweep summed up Bangladesh’s struggle. The control they displayed restricted scoring and built consistent pressure, turning the innings into a slow slide, like the Bangladesh team timeline.
What made Radha’s spell even more impressive was her composure after twisting her ankle while fielding. She returned to bowl the penultimate over and dismissed Rabeya with a sharp turner that crashed into the middle stump. Her performance reminded fans of the tactical patience seen during India vs Bangladesh timeline games, where spin control always defined India’s strength.
Mandhana and Amanjot Set Perfect Platform Before Rain
Chasing 126, Smriti Mandhana and Amanjot Kaur began aggressively. Amanjot replaced the injured Pratika Rawal and adjusted quickly to the role. Mandhana looked in complete control, using her feet to loft boundaries off spin and pace. By the ninth over, she was on 34 not out, already striking at over 130.
Amanjot supported with calm singles and crisp shots down the ground. The pair rotated strike efficiently, ensuring no pressure built. Both batters were dropped once each, but their rhythm remained unbroken. Mandhana’s drives off Nishita Akter were textbook perfect, while Amanjot’s short-arm pull against Marufa Akter signalled intent.
India were 57 without loss when rain returned just as the innings settled. The downpour ended all hopes of a finish as the minimum 20 overs weren’t completed. Still, this small chase reflected how balanced India’s top order looks even with an injury concern at the top.
Pratika Rawal Injury Adds Worry Before Semi-Final
The only shadow over India’s dominant performance was Pratika Rawal’s injury. While attempting to save a boundary, she twisted her knee and ankle awkwardly. She was carried off the field and did not return to bat in the chase. Team doctors confirmed she will undergo scans before the semi-final against Australia.
Her absence could be a major blow, considering her recent form and aggressive starts. India has used Rawal and Mandhana as one of their most reliable opening pairs this season. Amanjot Kaur’s solid approach gives India an alternate option, but the management will hope Rawal recovers in time for the knockout.
With rain forecast again in Mumbai, India’s plans might require flexibility. The team’s depth in batting and spin could be crucial if conditions stay unpredictable.
Conclusion
Rain may have denied India a win, but it couldn’t hide their dominance. Radha Yadav’s comeback, Mandhana’s control, and the team’s bowling discipline showed how confident India are heading into the final stages of the tournament. Bangladesh fought in patches but were undone by spin and sharp fielding pressure.
The shared points don’t affect India’s standing much, but the injury concern to Pratika Rawal remains their only setback. As they prepare to face Australia in the semi-final, the focus will shift to fitness and mental readiness.
Radha’s spell and India’s approach proved once again why this team thrives under pressure. They didn’t win on paper, but their form and confidence remain untouched.
