Jhulan Goswami becomes highest wicket-taker in Women’s World Cup history

Veteran India Women’s pacer Jhulan Goswami created history on Saturday, becoming the highest wicket-taker in the Women’s World Cup. Goswami achieved the feat during India’s clash against West Indies Women in Hamilton.

The 39-year-old dismissed Anisa Mohammed for 2 in the 36th over of West Indies’ innings to pick up her 40th wicket in the Women’s World Cup. Mohammed chipped one towards short midwicket and was caught.

With her 40th scalp, the “Chakda Express” went past the previous record held by Australia’s Lynn Fullston, who has 39 scalps to her name in the competition. England’s Carole Hodges (37) and Clare Taylor (36) and Australia’s Cathryn Fitzpatrick (33) complete the top five on the illustrious list.

Goswami finished the match with figures of 1/43 in her six overs.

Mandhana, Harmanpreet slam tons as India crush West Indies in Women’s World Cup 2022

Opener Smriti Mandhana hit 132 off 119 balls while Harmanpreet Kaur scored 109 off 107 as India Women put up an imposing 317 for 8, batting first after winning the toss in Hamilton.

Sneh Rana then claimed 3 for 22 in 9.3 overs, while Meghna Singh picked up 2 for 27 as India Women bowlers cleaned up West Indies Women for 162 in 40.3 overs. India thus registered a comprehensive 155-run triumph.

Reacting to India Women’s memorable win, captain Mithali Raj said she couldn't have asked for a better effort from the girls. Speaking after the game, she hailed the team and commented:

“The way they stepped up in a crunch game like this. It had a lot to do with the nerves, Everybody knew about the importance of this game. We needed to step up. Windies came into this game with two wins and we came in after a loss. You need to be a little flexible. Smriti and Kaur played sensibly.”

India’s next encounter in the Women’s World Cup 2022 will be against England at the Bay Oval in Mount Maunganui on March 16.