Harmanpreet Kaur experienced a familiar feeling for the fourth time in the last two years. In a white-ball match against Australia, the captain of India scored fifty runs in a chasing cause despite the absence of support from the opposition.

On a challenging Sharjah track, India showed intent as they pursued 152, with opener Shafali Verma hitting two boundaries and a six in her 13-ball 20, even though Smriti Mandhana found it tough to get the new ball through the gaps.

After the third wicket fell, Harmanpreet and Deepti Sharma worked together to salvage the innings, and India's pursuit gained pace due to a torrent of boundaries during their half-century stand. Unfortunately, Sophie Molineux dismissed the left-hander, leaving Harmanpreet on her own once more, just as the pair appeared ready to settle in and take the game further. Harmanpreet did look to keep the chase alive with her unbeaten fifty, but the knock of 47-ball 54* was not enough as India fell short by nine runs.

The aftermath of the loss was equally emotional. Inside the dressing room, Smriti Mandhana, India’s star opener, was seen sitting on the stairs, head in her hands, tears streaming down her face. Known for her calm composure, Mandhana was unable to hold back her emotions after seeing the team come so close to victory, only to have it slip away.

While the loss is undoubtedly a bitter pill to swallow, India’s women’s cricket team remains a source of immense pride for the nation. Their journey in the tournament has been inspirational, and they will be looking to bounce back stronger in future competitions.

As the players regroup and reflect on the missed opportunity, their focus will shift towards future challenges