Lord’s awaits another defining chapter as India battle Australia for semifinal berth

The Lord’s Cricket Ground, a venue steeped in history, also occupies a special place in the evolution of Indian women’s cricket. It was here, on July 23, 2017, that India fell heartbreakingly short against hosts England in a ODI World Cup final.

Yet, it turned out to be a watershed moment for the women’s game in the country.On Sunday, the same venue will host another defining contest when India take on an in-form Australia in a must-win Group I clash of the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup.

The equation is simple. Australia, unbeaten with four wins, lead the group with eight points. India and South Africa are tied at six points, with the latter taking on Bangladesh earlier in the day.

If South Africa win, India must beat Australia convincingly. Should both India and South Africa finish on eight points, net run rate will determine the two semifinalists from the group.For India to challenge Australia, the bowlers need to tighten their lines while the middle-order must finally come to the party before it’s too late. Above all, India’s fielders cannot afford another sloppy outing after dropping 11 catches in four matches.