Women's World Cup 2025: Smriti Mandhana's wicket was the turning point against England, says Harmanpreet Kaur

Women's World Cup 2025, Match 20: Harmanpreet Kaur [L] and Smriti Mandhana [R] (Source: Pankaj Nangia/Getty Images)

Indian skipper Harmanpreet Kaur feels Smriti Mandhana's wicket changed the entire complexion of the game against England. Smriti got out for 88 off 94 in the 42nd over of the run-chase at a point when India were firm favourites to win the contest. Harmanpreet credited the way England held their nerve despite not being in control of proceedings for most of the second innings. She also admitted that the final phase of the run-chase did not go as per plan.

"Smriti's wicket was the turning point for us. We still had batters left, but I don’t know how things went the other way. Credit to England—they didn’t lose hope and kept bowling and taking wickets. It’s a bad feeling when you’ve put in so much hard work, but the last 5-6 overs didn’t go according to plan. It was a heartbreaking moment,” stated Harmanpreet at the post-match presentation. 

Harmanpreet observed the positives as well, stating that only the finishing touches were missing as her side implemented most aspects as per expectations.  

“We are playing good cricket and not giving up, but we have to cross the line. In the last three games, we showed good cricket but ended up on the losing side. The next game is very important. Our bowlers did a really good job—when Heather (Knight) was batting, they looked strong. We did a lot right, but we need to rethink the last five overs. The next game against New Zealand will be crucial,” she added.

Indiahad lost two wickets by the end of their powerplay before Smriti and Harmanpreet stitched 125 off 122 for the third wicket. Even after Harmanpreet fell for a run-a-ball 70, the situation was in control with Deepti Sharma batting along with Smriti.

However, Smriti's dismissal sparked the asking rate. Although only two more wickets fell till the end of the match, it was clear that the new batters to arrive at the crease were failed to adapt in sufficient time as the hosts ended up losing by four runs at the Holkar Cricket Stadium in Indore.