India faces a potential early exit from the Women’s T20 World Cup after a crucial defeat to Australia. This would be their earliest elimination since 2016, after having reached the semifinals in the past three editions, including a runner-up finish. However, this year’s campaign has not lived up to expectations.

In their final group-stage match, India needed to defeat Australia by a substantial margin to secure a semifinal spot. Despite a strong, unbeaten half-century from captain Harmanpreet Kaur, India’s efforts fell short. Chasing a 152-run target, India managed 142 for nine in their 20 overs. Harmanpreet’s innings kept India in the race, but the team couldn’t find the necessary support from the lower order to push through.

The chase initially seemed on track as Harmanpreet found help from all-rounder Deepti Sharma. The duo hit several boundaries, briefly raising hopes for a win. However, Australia’s Sophie Molineux broke the partnership by dismissing Deepti at a crucial point. Australia’s dominance grew when Annabel Sutherland took three wickets in her final over, leaving India’s lower order in disarray.

Australia's win secured their spot in the semifinals for a record ninth consecutive time, maintaining their perfect record of reaching the knockout stages. India finished the group stage with four points from four matches, leaving their tournament hopes uncertain.

Can Pakistan Save India’s Campaign? India's chances of reaching the semifinals now rest on the outcome of the final Group A match between Pakistan and New Zealand. If Pakistan defeats New Zealand, even by a small margin, India could advance due to a better net run rate compared to New Zealand.

However, if New Zealand wins, India will be eliminated, as New Zealand would move ahead with six points. In another possible scenario, Pakistan could surpass India with a big win and join Australia in the semifinals, pushing India out of contention.

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