WATCH: Minnu Mani’s jaw-dropping catch to dismiss Hayley Matthews in the IND-W vs WI-W 2024 1st T20I

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In the first T20I match between India and West Indies at the Dr. DY Patil Sports Academy in Navi Mumbai on Sunday, Minnu Mani grabbed the spotlight with an astonishing catch that dismissed West Indies opener and skipper Hayley Matthews. The substitute fielder’s brilliance was one of the key highlights of the match.

Minnu Mani’s pulls off a sensational catch

The stunning moment came in the second over of the West Indies innings when medium-fast bowler Titas Sadhu bowled to Matthews. Attempting to pull a delivery that wasn’t quite short enough, Matthews mistimed her shot, resulting in a top-edge over wide mid-on. Mani sprinted back from her position, stretched out her arms, and executed a breathtaking diving catch. The ball stuck near her wrist, and despite the impact with the ground, she clutched onto it, ensuring Matthews’ early departure for just 1 run off 5 balls. Such catches, requiring agility, precision, and courage, are rare and rightly earned Mani a mob of celebratory teammates.

Here is the video:

Mani didn’t stop with Matthews’ dismissal. She further showcased her exceptional fielding prowess by taking another crucial catch, dismissing Chinelle Henry later in the game. Her athleticism and alertness in the field were pivotal in India’s dominant performance.

While Mani’s efforts stood out in the field, it was Sadhu who spearheaded India’s bowling attack. Despite an economy rate of 9.20, Sadhu claimed three wickets in her four-over spell, providing crucial breakthroughs and keeping the West Indies batters under pressure. Her early strikes, including the prized wicket of Matthews, set the tone for India’s control over the game.

Also READ: Twitter reactions: Jemimah Rodrigues, Titas Sadhu help India beat West Indies in the 1st Women’s T20I

Comprehensive win for Team India

India, having been asked to bat first, posted an imposing total of 195 for 4 in their 20 overs. Jemimah Rodrigues led the charge with a scintillating knock of 73 runs off just 35 balls, showcasing her flair and composure.

In response, the West Indies managed to score 146 for 7 in their 20 overs, falling short by 49 runs. Despite a valiant half-century from Deandra Dottin, the visitors struggled to build partnerships and keep up with the required run rate. For her match-winning innings, Rodrigues was deservingly named Player of the Match. Her aggressive batting not only laid a strong foundation but also demoralized the opposition bowlers.

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This article was first published at WomenCricket.com, a Cricket Times company.

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