India’s campaign in the 2024 ICC Women’s T20 World Cup has had its share of highs and lows. In their opening game against New Zealand, the team faced a disappointing 58-run defeat. New Zealand posted 160/4, with Sophie Devine starring (57* off 36). India’s response fell short, being bowled out for 102, with top players like Harmanpreet Kaur and Smriti Mandhana struggling.
However, India bounced back strongly in their next match against Pakistan, securing a crucial 6-wicket victory. Pakistan managed 105/8 in their 20 overs, but a brilliant innings from Shafali Verma (32), Jemimah Rodrigues (23) and Harmanpreet Kaur (29 – retired hurt) ensured India chased down the target in 18.5 overs. This win has kept India’s hopes alive in the tournament, setting them up for a must-win situation in their remaining group-stage matches
India’s Performance in Past ICC Women’s T20 World Cups
India’s journey in the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup has been one of growth and promise. Since the inaugural tournament in 2009, the Indian team has seen its share of ups and downs but has gradually transformed into one of the most competitive sides in international women’s cricket. Here’s a look at how India has fared in each edition:
2009: England
The first edition of the Women’s T20 World Cup saw India reach the semi-finals. They played well in the group stages but were knocked out by New Zealand in the semis, losing by 52 runs. This was a promising start for India, as they demonstrated their ability to compete with top teams early on in the tournament’s history.
2010: West Indies
In the second edition, India couldn’t progress beyond the group stage. This was a disappointing campaign, with the team unable to replicate the success of 2009. Australia went on to win their first Women’s T20 World Cup.
2012: Sri Lanka
India once again struggled in the group stage. Despite having some experienced players, they failed to advance, finishing third in their group. Australia continued their dominance in the tournament by winning their second consecutive title.
2014: Bangladesh
This was another underwhelming tournament for India, as they once again crashed out in the group stage. The team was inconsistent, and though they had some standout performances, it wasn’t enough to secure a spot in the semi-finals. Australia claimed their third consecutive title in this edition.
2016: India (Host)
Hosting the tournament gave India a boost, but unfortunately, they were once again eliminated in the group stage. The team showed signs of improvement, but the competition was stiff, and they couldn’t make it through to the knockouts. The West Indies went on to win their first-ever Women’s T20 World Cup, defeating Australia.
2018: West Indies
India made a breakthrough in 2018 by reaching the semi-finals once again. This marked a turning point for the team as young talents like Harmanpreet Kaur and Smriti Mandhana came into their own. However, they were defeated by England in the semis. Australia reclaimed the title by beating England in the final.
2020: Australia
This was India’s best performance to date. India reached the final for the first time in their T20 World Cup history. Led by Harmanpreet Kaur, the team had a stellar run in the tournament, remaining undefeated in the group stages. However, they fell short in the final, losing to Australia by 85 runs in a packed Melbourne Cricket Ground. Despite the loss, this campaign marked a significant step forward for Indian women’s cricket.
2023: South Africa
India once again made it to the semi-finals, but were narrowly defeated by Australia, the eventual champions, in a thrilling match. This tournament showcased India’s growing consistency, as they continued to perform well in the knockout stages. Australia continued their dominance, winning their sixth title overall.
As the 2024 tournament continues, India will need consistent performances from key players like Harmanpreet Kaur and Smriti Mandhana to continue their run in the tournament and aim for their maiden title.
