India’s preparations for the ICC women’s World Cup appeared on track, following an eight-wicket victory over New Zealand in a warm-up match at Bandra Kurla Complex ground on Monday.
Fast bowler Jhulan Goswami (three for 26) and opener Poonam Raut (69, 89b, 12x4) eased the home team’s path to victory.
New Zealand managed 201 in 47.5 overs against eight bowlers tried out by India. Jhulan got three breakthroughs in eight overs, support came from left-arm spinners Gauher Sultana (two for 35 in 10 overs) and Ekta Bisht (two for 32 in 8.5 overs).
Frances Mackay top-scored for the Kiwis with 69 off 101 balls, hitting seven boundaries.
In reply, the Indian openers Poonam Raut and Thirush Kamini (43, 74b, 6x4) put on 119 for the first wicket in 27 overs. Harmanpreet Kaur lashed 46 not out off 56 balls (4x4, 2x6) in the company of skipper Mithali Raj (36 not out, 43b, 5x4) as India cruised home in 43.3 overs, scoring 204 for two. — Special Correspondent
