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In a thrilling encounter during the Women’s T20 World Cup 2024, New Zealand faced Pakistan in a match that showcased not just batting prowess but also exceptional fielding. As the game unfolded, it was Lea Tahuhu who became the star of the show with a breathtaking run-out that left fans and commentators buzzing. This incident epitomized her agility and sharp reflexes, reminiscent of a falcon swooping down on its prey.
A moment of brilliance by Lea Tahuhu in the field
The pivotal moment came in the last ball of the 5th over when Fatima Sana and Iram Javed attempted a quick single after a delivery from Fran Jonas. The ball deflected off Fatima’s boot, prompting Pakistan to seize the opportunity. However, Tahuhu was quick to react. Positioned at short third, she charged in and executed a cheeky under-arm flick that hit the stumps with pinpoint accuracy. Javed was well short of her crease, and as she walked back, it was clear that Pakistan’s innings had taken a severe blow.
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Here’s the video:
New Zealand walks into the semis of the global event
New Zealand started their innings with a solid foundation but faced challenges as they lost wickets at crucial moments. Suzie Bates led the charge with a steady 28 runs off 29 balls, while Georgia Plimmer contributed 17 runs. However, the middle order faltered, with Amelia Kerr (9), Sophie Devine (19), and Maddy Green (9) failing to capitalize on their starts.
Nashra Sandhu was the standout bowler for Pakistan, claiming three wickets for just 18 runs in her four overs, effectively dismantling New Zealand’s batting lineup. Despite the setbacks, New Zealand managed to post a total of 110 runs for the loss of six wickets in their allotted 20 overs.
Chasing a target of 111 runs, Pakistan’s innings began disastrously. They lost their first wicket early when Aliya Riaz was dismissed for a duck. The team quickly found themselves in dire straits at 19 for 2 after Muneeba Ali fell for 15 runs. The pressure mounted as wickets continued to tumble, with Javed run out by Tahuhu in a moment of brilliance that showcased her fielding prowess.
Pakistan’s batting lineup crumbled under pressure, managing only 56 runs in 11.4 overs before being bowled out. Amelia Kerr was instrumental with the ball, taking three wickets for just 14 runs in her brief spell.
Tahuhu’s exceptional fielding not only highlighted her individual talent but also reinforced New Zealand’s reputation as one of the top teams in women’s cricket. Her run-out was a reminder of how crucial fielding can be in T20 matches—often making the difference between victory and defeat.
As the match concluded with Pakistan falling short of the target by 54 runs, the hopes of qualification into the semi finals were shattered by the white ferns for both Pakistan as well as India from the group of death.
