There is hardly any excitement of watching a sporting clash without historic context. There is a reason why India-Pakistan clash creates the kind of buzz it does or why the Australia-England rivalry is as celebrated as it is. For all the talk that matches are not won or lost with the statistics or what has happened in the past, it does play a role in build up to the game and it does play a part as some victories taste sweeter than others.
If India were to overcome their disappointment of their Women’s T20 World Cup 2020 where they came so close yet remained so far, stumbling at the final hurdle, it would just be the most perfect redemption story but the fact that they have the same opponents against them who were there that historic evening at the Melbourne Cricket Ground- Australia- would make it all the more meaningful for the Women in Blue.
However, it would also mean that the Asian would need to have their best day in the competition to beat Australia in the semifinal. Make no mistake, India beating Australia would be no less than an upset. The Aussies have clinched 22 of the 30 T20I matches that they have played against India with India clinching just six wins. It is also pertinent to note in this regard that the Aussies have won 54 of 63 T20Is which they have played since the beginning of 2018, making them a runaway favourite in this match.
To make matters worse, India’s Harmanpreet Kaur remains doubtful but whosoever takes the field for India would go out there to give their best. If they can play their best, they will have a chance to beat but if they fumble, like this team has in the past in the crunch games, then this Aussie side is too good a team to let any opportunity go.
Fasten your seat belts and get set for an exciting game of cricket.
