New Delhi: Richa Ghosh produced a sensational knock back but her valiant effort ultimately went in vain as England held their nerve to register a thrilling five-run win over India in the Women’s T20 World Cup warm-up match on Wednesday.After defeating the West Indies by 26 runs in their first warm-up game, India came close to making it two wins in two matches before falling short in a tight tie. Chasing 172, India struggled to get going on a used surface that offered pace and bounce to the bowlers. The top order found it difficult to pace, with Yesthika Bhatia and skipper Harmanpreet Kaur making starts but failing to convert them into significant scores.With wickets falling regularly, the chase appeared to be winding down before Richa launched a brilliant rescue act.The wicketkeeper-batsman almost single-handedly kept India alive, countering England’s onslaught despite receiving little support from the other end. With 17 runs needed in the last over, as long as Richa was at the crease, India had hope.The right-hander immediately boosted Indian hopes with a four and a six off Linsey Smith. With the tie suddenly in need of six runs off the last three balls, England began to feel the heat.However, the turning point came on the fourth ball of the over. Looking for another big hit, Richa charged down the track but was beaten by a flight of delivery and stumped by Alice Kepsey for a brilliant 68 off just 36 balls, an innings that included nine fours and two sixes.His dismissal effectively ended India’s hopes.Two balls later, Renuka Singh Thakur was caught by Charlie Dean as England completed a narrow five-run victory, bowling India out for 166 in 19.5 overs.Earlier, England scored 171 for six, giving their batsmen valuable time ahead of the tournament. For India, despite the defeat, Richa’s return to form will be a big boost in the Women’s T20 World Cup. The 21-year-old endured a quiet tour of England but provided a timely reminder of his match-winning abilities.The warm-up campaign of both the teams is now over. England will begin their T20 World Cup campaign against Sri Lanka on June 12, while India will open the tournament against arch-rivals Pakistan on June 14.
