Published: Jan 31, 2013, 05:52 PM (IST)
Edited: Jan 31, 2013, 05:52 PM (IST)
Poonam Raut (left) and Thirush Kamini shared a record 175-run opening stand for India © AFP
Mumbai: Jan 31, 2013
Openers Thirush Kamini and Poonam Raut helped India reach a respectable total of 284 for six in the inaugural match of the ICC Women’s World Cup against the West Indies at the Brabourne Stadium.
The duo shared a record 175-run opening stand — the highest by India against a non-Associate nation. While Raut was dismissed for 72, Kamini went on to score the first century by an Indian in the Women’s World Cup.
The 22-year-old’s 100 came off 146 balls and included 11 boundaries and a six. She paced her innings along well after letting Raut do the scoring initially. When her opening partner eventually fell, Kamini took over the reins and ensured India reached a defendable total.
The previous best by an Indian eve in a World Cup was by skipper Mithali Raj who socred 91 against Netherlands in the 2005 edition, while this was the highest team total posted by the side.
India surpssed their previous highest score of 275 against Netherlands in the 2000 World Cup in New Zealand.
Left-hander Kamini, who made a comeback into the side, scored 100 in 146 balls was finally run-out.
She struck 11 fours and a six and batted till the 43rd over and spent 156 minutes at the crease.
Poonam Raut‘s 72 runs came off 94 balls and she struck seven fours during her 144-minute stay at the crease.
Raut was finally out leg before trying a sweep shot off spinner Shanel Daley. India tried to accelerate and made best use of the Powerplay as 45 runs came off those five overs.
She was joined by former Indian skipper Jhulan Goswami, who was promoted as a pinch hitter and Goswami made a quickfire 36 in 21 balls.
India started losing wickets towards the end in their bid to step up the ante.
For the visitors, seamer Deandra Dottin picked up three wickets in her four overs while giving away 32 runs, and Daley picked up one.
(with inputs from PTI)
Brief Scores: India 284 for 6 in 50 overs (Thirush Kamini 100, Poonam Raut 72; Deandra Dottin 3 for 32) vs West Indies.
