JustBaazaar Editor July 8, 2024

The second T20I between India Women and South Africa Women was abandoned due to persistent rain at the MA Chidambaram Stadium. Despite a strong performance by South Africa, which saw them post a challenging total of 177/6, the weather ultimately had the final say, leaving the series still open.

India Women vs South Africa Women, 2nd T20I: Rain Halts Play, Series Hangs in the Balance
India Women vs South Africa Women, 2nd T20I: Rain Halts Play, Series Hangs in the Balance

Match Summary

South Africa Women, batting first, were led by impressive performances from Tazmin Brits and Nadine de Klerk. Brits scored a fluent 57 off 39 balls, while de Klerk contributed a solid 45 off 30. The Indian bowlers struggled to contain the South African batters, with only Deepti Sharma standing out by picking up two crucial wickets.

In response, India Women faced an uphill task, needing 178 runs to level the series. However, rain interruptions played spoilsport, halting the game just as India was about to commence their chase. The downpour continued, and the umpires had no choice but to call off the match.

Player Performances

  • Tazmin Brits: 57 runs (39 balls)
  • Nadine de Klerk: 45 runs (30 balls)
  • Deepti Sharma: 2 wickets

Captains’ Reactions

India captain Harmanpreet Kaur expressed her disappointment over the abandonment. “It’s frustrating when the weather decides the outcome, especially when we were eager to bounce back. However, credit to our bowlers for improving in the middle overs,” Kaur said.

South Africa’s captain Sune Luus was also disappointed but remained optimistic. “We were in a strong position, and it’s unfortunate the rain intervened. But we are confident going into the final match,” Luus stated.

Series Outlook

The abandonment leaves the series tantalizingly poised, with South Africa maintaining a 1-0 lead from their win in the first T20I. The focus now shifts to the third and final T20I, where India will aim to level the series, while South Africa will look to secure a series victory.

Venue and Broadcast

The third T20I is scheduled to be played at the same venue in Chennai, weather permitting. Fans can catch the live action on the Sports 18 network and via streaming on the Jio Cinema app and website.

Fantasy XI Prediction for 3rd T20I

As anticipation builds for the final match, experts and fans are already speculating about the ideal Fantasy XI. Key players to watch include India’s Smriti Mandhana and Jemimah Rodrigues, along with South Africa’s Marizanne Kapp and Laura Wolvaardt.

Conclusion

While the rain played spoilsport in the second T20I, both teams will be eager to put on a show in the final match of the series. With South Africa holding a slight edge, India will need to bring their A-game to level the series and build momentum ahead of upcoming international fixtures.