NEW DELHI: Richa Ghosh produced a sensational counterattacking knock but her valiant effort ultimately went in vain as England held their nerve to register a thrilling five-run victory over India in a Women’s T20 World Cup warm-up match on Wednesday.After defeating West Indies by 26 runs in their first warm-up game, India came agonisingly close to making it two wins in two matches before falling short in a tense finish. Chasing 172, India struggled to get going on a used surface that offered pace and bounce to the bowlers. The top order found it difficult to accelerate, with Yastika Bhatia and captain Harmanpreet Kaur getting starts but failing to convert them into significant scores.With wickets falling regularly, the chase appeared to be slipping away before Richa launched a stunning rescue act.The wicketkeeper-batter kept India alive almost single-handedly, taking on the England attack despite receiving little support from the other end. Needing 17 runs off the final over, India still had hope as long as Richa remained at the crease.The right-hander immediately raised Indian hopes by smashing a boundary and a six off Linsey Smith. The equation suddenly came down to six runs needed from the final three deliveries, with England beginning to feel the heat.However, the turning point arrived on the fourth ball of the over. Attempting another big hit, Richa charged down the track but was beaten by the flight of the delivery and stumped by Alice Capsey for a magnificent 68 off just 36 balls, an innings featuring nine fours and two sixes.Her dismissal effectively ended India’s hopes.Two balls later, Renuka Singh Thakur was caught by Charlie Dean as England completed a narrow five-run victory, bowling India out for 166 in 19.5 overs.Earlier, England had posted 171 for six, giving their batters valuable time in the middle ahead of the tournament. For India, despite the defeat, Richa’s return to form will be a major boost heading into the Women’s T20 World Cup. The 21-year-old had endured a quiet tour of England but delivered a timely reminder of her match-winning abilities.The warm-up campaign is now over for both teams. England will begin their T20 World Cup campaign against Sri Lanka on June 12, while India open their tournament against arch-rivals Pakistan on June 14.
