Shafali Verma’s sensational 115-ball 197 wasn’t enough to secure a win for Haryana as Bengal pulled off the highest successful run chase in Women’s List A cricket history. Bengal chased down a massive target of 390 in the final over to win by five wickets in the Senior Women’s One Day Trophy quarterfinals held in Rajkot on Monday.
Shafali Verma’s explosive knock
Haryana started with batting first and posted an huge total of 389-5. Team’s Captain and opener Shafali Verma led the charge with breathtaking innings, smashing 22 fours and 11 sixes. She was well-supported by Reema Sisodia, who contributed 58 runs in a solid 173-run opening partnership. Even after Shafali was dismissed in the 39th over with the score at 298, Triveni Vasistha (46) and Sonia Mendhiya (61) ensured Haryana got close to the 400-run mark.
Bengal’s attacking start keeps the chase alive
Bengal began their chase with great intent as openers Sasthi Mondal (52) and Dhara Gujjar (69) added 100 runs in just nine overs. The rapid start laid the foundation for Bengal to stay in control of the required run rate throughout the innings. Number three batter Tanusree Sarkar played a pivotal role with her brilliant century, scoring 113. Later, wicketkeeper Priyanka Bala (88 not out) and Hrishita Basu (11 not out) held their nerve in a tense finish, taking Bengal past the target on the first ball of the final over.
Madhya Pradesh Overpowers J&K i another QF
In another match of the day, Madhya Pradesh defeated Jammu & Kashmir by 82 runs. Madhya Pradesh set a target of 274-8 and restricted J&K to 192-8, advancing to the next stage with a dominant performance.
