Shafali Verma turned rescuer once again for India in the Women's T20 World Cup. Her blistering knock of 53 off just 34 balls steered the team to a five-wicket victory over Bangladesh and kept India's semifinal hopes flickering. The dazzling effort earned her the Player of the Match award, yet curiously, even after smashing a half-century, she did not look fully satisfied.
The reason was a small wish left unfulfilled. Shafali had wanted to carry the team across the finish line and walk back unbeaten, but that was not to be. After the match, she made no secret of her regret.
What Shafali Said
Shafali Verma said, 'I'm very happy with the way I batted today. But had I stayed not out, the joy would have been double. I felt good confidence today and I'm pleased that I could put runs on the board for the team. We simply trusted our batting. The thinking was to hit a four or six off any loose delivery, and if that chance didn't come, to take a single and rotate the strike. It wasn't any special plan, just a normal conversation.'
Shafali's Mantra on Shot Selection
After restricting Bangladesh to 136 for eight, India chased down the target comfortably, reaching 139 for five in 16.5 overs. Talking about her improving batting and shot selection, Shafali said her entire focus stays on waiting for the right ball. 'I just try to pick the right ball. The one within my reach, I play a shot at it, otherwise I look to run for my runs,' she said.
Ready for Every Role
In the last few matches, Shafali has also been seen bowling with the new ball. On this, she said she is willing to take on any role the team needs. 'During net sessions I practise bowling with both the new and the old ball. Sometimes it even makes us laugh, but in the end, whatever the team needs, I'm always ready for it,' Shafali explained.
Australia Up Next
India's next and most crucial assignment is against Australia, a clash being seen as decisive for their semifinal path. In the ongoing World Cup, India have won three of their four matches and lost one. The team will take on Australia at Lord's on Sunday, June 28.
