India’s hopes of entering the Women’s T20 World Cup semi-finals were dashed following New Zealand’s 54-run victory over Pakistan in Dubai on Monday.
Australia and New Zealand — the top two teams in Group A with 8 and 6 points, respectively — entered the knockout phase while India finished third with four points.
Chasing 111, Pakistan women put up a pathetic show and were bowled out for 56 in 11.4 overs.
Amelia Kerr was the most successful bowler for New Zealand with three wickets.
Pakistan too had slim chances of advancing via the net run-rate. But they dropped eight catches and their batters succumbed to the pressure of needing to win inside 12 overs.
On Sunday, Australia pacer Annabel Sutherland bowled an extraordinary final over in which she defended 14 runs, took two wickets and denied India the right to decide their own destiny.
A win would have been enough for New Zealand to qualify for the semi-final at the expense of India and they performed to their potential.
“She’s so composed,” stand-in captain Tahila McGrath said of Sutherland. “She executed her plan beautifully."
Brief scores: NZ 110/6 in 20 ovs (Suzie Bates 28; Nashra Sandhu 3/18). Pak 56 in 11.4 ovs (Amelia Kerr 3/14). NZ won by 54 runs.
