The air in Bengaluru on September 27th, 2025, wasn`t just thick with the lingering scent of recent rain; it was charged with anticipation. For the India Women`s cricket team, this wasn`t merely `another warm-up match` against New Zealand ahead of the ICC Women`s World Cup 2025/26. It was an opportunity – a chance to rebound from a recent heavy defeat to England and recalibrate their rhythm. And rebound they did, with a compelling four-wicket victory that spoke volumes of their resilience and batting prowess.
The White Ferns Set the Stage
The match itself was a testament to flexibility, having been shortened to 42 overs per side following an uncharacteristic rain delay. New Zealand, opting to bat first, found themselves quickly under pressure from India`s bowlers. Despite early inroads that left them at 38 for 2, the White Ferns managed to steady their ship. Captain Sophie Devine, with a defiant 54, and the ever-reliable Amelia Kerr, contributing a solid 40 runs off 67 balls, ensured their side posted a competitive total of 232 for 8. India`s N Shree Charani was particularly effective, claiming three crucial wickets, ably supported by pacers Kranti Goud and the returning Arundhati Reddy, who each bagged two. Reddy`s return to form, after suffering a blow to her leg in the previous match, was a welcome sight, signaling depth and determination.
India`s Chase: From Stumble to Stride
Chasing 237, India`s innings began with promise, reaching 54 for 0 in the eighth over. However, the cricketing gods, ever fond of drama, soon introduced a twist. The quick departures of Pratika Rawal and Uma Chetry saw India stumble to 71 for 2, momentarily casting a shadow of doubt over their chase.
The Partnership That Turned the Tide
This was precisely the moment for seasoned leadership and emerging talent to converge. And they did. Harleen Deol, with a fluent 74, and captain Harmanpreet Kaur, exhibiting her characteristic power and composure for a well-made 69, took center stage. Like seasoned conductors, they orchestrated a masterful 132-run third-wicket partnership, steadily dismantling New Zealand`s bowling attack and guiding India towards the target with an air of clinical efficiency. It was a partnership that not only accumulated runs but also instilled confidence back into the dugout and, undoubtedly, sent a clear message to any watching rivals about India`s batting depth.
A Dramatic Finish and a Resounding Victory
Just when victory seemed inevitable, cricket, in its delightful cruelty, reminded everyone of its unpredictability. From a comfortable 203 for 2, India experienced a mini-collapse, losing four quick wickets to reach 230 for 6. The tension was palpable. Was this another stumble? Would the pressure get to them? Mercifully, the remaining batters held their nerve, sealing the win with ten balls to spare. A victory, perhaps, more thrilling than anticipated, but a victory nonetheless, showcasing their ability to handle pressure even in non-competitive games.
While warm-up matches offer no silverware, this triumph delivered something arguably more valuable: confidence, cohesion, and a clear message to their World Cup rivals. India`s recovery from a tough start, the dominance of their middle-order batting, and the collective effort of their bowling unit paint a promising picture. As the Women`s World Cup approaches, this compelling win against a strong New Zealand side provides a vital shot of morale and a refined blueprint for success. The journey to the trophy is long, but this performance in Bengaluru suggests India is well on course to make a significant impact.
