Shafali Verma’s poor run with the bat extended into the IC Women’s T20 World Cup as she flopped once again, this time against New Zealand. The batter only managed to score two runs and last for four deliveries before she was sent packing. India started their campaign on a losing note after being handed a 58-run defeat in their tournament opener. Given Verma’s lean run recently, it would be the apt time for India Women to give an opportunity to the promising Yastika Bhatia.
Why India should swap Yastika Bhatia for Shafali Verma
Shafali Verma has managed to score only 51 runs in the last five games that she has played. Known for her explosive nature of batting, the star has not managed to deliver effectively with the bat, thereby dealing India an early blow in the top-order. If there one batter who can replace Shafali’s firepower in the XI, then it is Yastika Bhatia.
Although Bhatia has never opened the batting to date for India, she has been in phenomenal form this year. With over 100 runs in the last five matches, the Baroda cricketer is no stranger to playing cricket on the big stage and has the capability to go all guns blazing.
| Batter | Matches | Runs |
| Shafali Verma | 82 | 1950 |
| Yastika Bhatia | 19 | 214 |
Although Shafali is statistically better, it would be wise for India to act soon and get rid of the menace at the top. There are very less chances of the team allowing Yastika Bhatia to open the innings if she is picked ahead of Verma. Therefore, India would have to find another opener to partner with the seasoned Smriti Mandhana.
India has 3 more group-stage matches remaining in the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup. Up next, is the clash of the rivals as India takes on Pakistan on 6th October. India will then take on Sri Lanka on 9th October before taking on the mighty Aussies in their final group stage game on 13th October.
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