Smriti Mandhana poor shot selection became the talking point after India’s heartbreaking four-run loss to England in Indore. The Indian opener led a confident chase with a sublime 88 before falling to an ill-timed lofted shot in the 42nd over — a moment she immediately regretted.
“I was trying to aim more over covers. I mistimed that shot,” Mandhana said. “Maybe emotions took over, which never helps in cricket.”
Mandhana Takes Full Responsibility for India’s Collapse
India needed just 55 off 52 balls with six wickets in hand when Smriti Mandhana’s poor shot selection triggered a dramatic collapse. She didn’t shy away from accountability.
“Especially it started from me so I will take it on me that the shot selection should have been better. We just needed six per over. Maybe we should have taken the game deeper,” she admitted.
Her honest reflection highlighted how critical composure is during high-pressure chases.
“We Could Have Finished It” — Mandhana Reflects
Mandhana believed India had the chase under control until that fateful dismissal. “I think everyone’s shot selections at that time could have been better. We were in control of the run rate and just needed to stay calm,” she said.
She emphasized that finishing duties aren’t limited to Richa Ghosh alone. “It’s not like we needed nine per over that the finishing part was a lot to ask. Amanjot Kaur and Sneh Rana have also done that for us before.”
Tactical Decision: Jemimah Dropped for Extra Bowler
Ahead of the game, India made a bold tactical call — dropping Jemimah Rodrigues to bring in Renuka Singh Thakur. Mandhana explained the reasoning behind this adjustment.
“In the last two matches, five bowling options were not enough. On a flatter track, one bowler having a bad day could cost us,” she said, clarifying it was purely a match-up decision.
Looking Ahead: Mandhana’s Redemption Mindset
India will now face New Zealand on October 23 in Navi Mumbai, with both teams fighting for the final semi-final spot. Smriti Mandhana, despite her poor shot selection in the last match, expressed confidence about bouncing back.
“In cricket, nothing comes easy. You’re meant to have good and bad days. What matters is how you bounce back,” Mandhana concluded, radiating optimism.
🔗 Internal Links:
👉 India Women’s Cricket Updates
