Reema Malhotra believes that Titas Sadhu’s outstanding performance in the first T20I between India and Australia would have pleased Jhulan Goswami. Sadhu claimed 4-17 in four overs, contributing to restricting Australia to 141 at the DY Patil Stadium in Navi Mumbai on January 5.
Shafali Verma’s unbeaten 64 from 44 balls and Smriti Mandhana’s 54 off 52 deliveries formed a formidable 137-run opening partnership, guiding the home team to a convincing nine-wicket victory with 14 deliveries remaining. Reema Malhotra commended Titas Sadhu for delivering a performance that would have made her mentor, Jhulan Goswami, proud during a Sports 18 discussion.
“She (Sadhu) is 19 years old, but she dismissed four top batters. She also dismissed a set batter in between. (Tahlia) McGrath’s wicket was the biggest wicket of this match. The temperament and positive thinking were evident. I am sure Jhulan Goswami would be elated because she is her mentor.”
Reema Malhotra praised the young Bengal seamer for staying prepared despite being a late addition to the playing XI.
“Jhulan Goswami said that her (Sadhu’s) work ethic is excellent. Titas Sadhu showed clarity of thought. She was a last-moment change, and she was prepared. She does a good job and speaks well too.”
Malhotra also commended India’s head coach, Amol Muzumdar, for including Sadhu in the XI, emphasizing that it showcased Muzumdar’s experience and close attention to women’s cricket.
“Young energetic cricketers come and show so much maturity” – Saba Karim’s views on Titas Sadhu
Saba Karim commended Titas Sadhu for the maturity she exhibited, stating:
“The good thing is that young energetic cricketers come and show so much maturity. She said such a huge thing that she was there with the team for so many days but wasn’t getting a chance to play, but she was always ready.”
The ex-Indian wicketkeeper-batsman acknowledged Sadhu and the coaching staff for her preparedness to excel when given the chance:
“When she got a chance today, she was a last-minute inclusion for sure, but you can only perform if you have prepared well. So, a player who hasn’t been playing, had also prepared well. The credit goes to the coaching staff as well, as they keep all players ready and fit.”
Karim wrapped up by observing that Sadhu, Renuka Singh, and Amanjot Kaur’s well-pitched deliveries contributed to taking wickets. He emphasized that opting for either hard or full lengths against the Australian batters on a flat pitch was more effective than bowling short, preventing boundaries and leading to fruitful outcomes.
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