India began their T20 World Cup preparations with a solid 20-run victory over the West Indies in Dubai. Jemimah Rodrigues led the charge with a crucial 52-run knock, while Pooja Vastrakar shone with the ball, taking 3 wickets to secure the win.
Batting first at the ICC Academy Ground No. 2, India posted a competitive total of 141 runs in their 20 overs despite a shaky start. Openers Shafali Verma (7) and Smriti Mandhana (14) were unable to build momentum, but a key 50-run partnership between Rodrigues and Yastika Bhatia helped stabilise the innings. Captain Harmanpreet Kaur fell for just one run, with West Indies captain Hayley Matthews claiming her wicket. Richa Ghosh’s run-out for 7 added to India's struggles, but late contributions from Vastrakar and Deepti Sharma ensured a respectable total.
The West Indies’ response saw resistance from Afy Fletcher and Chinelle Henry, but India’s bowlers, led by Vastrakar’s 3 for 20, maintained pressure throughout and secured a comfortable 20-run win.
India's strong performance in their opening warm-up match positions them as strong contenders for the T20 World Cup. They will face South Africa in their next warm-up game on October 1 in Dubai.