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Xtra Time Web Desk: Jemimah Rodrigues’s ruthless late assault helped India beat Pakistan by 7-wickets at the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup. Chasing a target of 150 to win, the Indian No.3 struck a brilliant 53 not out off just 38 deliveries to haul her team over the line with one over remaining. Jemima was well supported by wicketkeeper Richa Ghosh as the duo smashed a combined 27 runs off the 17th and 18th overs to leave their side with just 14 required from the final 12 balls.

India started solidly in their pursuit of the target as openers Yastika Bhatia and Shafali Verma put on 33 heading into the final over of the powerplay But Pakistan soon struck as Sadia Iqbal removed Bhatia for 17, chipping straight to Fatima Sana who held a straightforward catch at cover.

Verma navigated her way to a measured 33 off 25 balls before Pakistan claimed their second scalp, Sidra pulling off a stunning catch on the boundary off Nashra. Nashra’s impressive middle overs spell continued to turn the screw for Pakistan and she soon struck once again by dismissing Indian captain Harmanpreet Kaur, caught by opposite number Bismah when attempting a slog sweep on 16.

That looked to put Pakistan on the brink of victory but India responded in style, with Rodrigues leading the charge alongside Ghosh.

Earlier Pakistan won the toss and batted first. Captain Bismah Maroof played a perfect anchor role as she remained not out on 68 while young Ayesh Naseem played an attacking 43# to take Pakistan to 149/4 in 20 overs.

Scores:

Pakistan 149/4 in 20 overs (Bismah Maroof 68*, Ayesha Naseem 43*; Radha Yadav 2/21)

India 151/3 in 19 overs (Jemimah Rodrigues 53*, Shafali Verma 33; Nashra Sandhu 2/15)