2nd ODI: Indian eves lose to New Zealand; 5-match series level at 1-1

Bengaluru, July 1: Unable to carry on the momentum from their opening win, the Indian women's cricket team lost the second ODI to New Zealand by 3 wickets, failing to pick up crucial points for the 2017 World Cup qualification.

Chasing a modest 164 for a win at the M Chinnasway Stadium, the Suzie Bates-led New Zealand reached the target in 44.2 overs to draw level the five-match series.

The Indian bowlers tried their best while picking wickets at regular intervals but the 49-run fifth-wicket partnership between Sophie Devine (33) and Katie Perkins (30) proved vital in the chase.

The eight-wicket unbeaten 32-run stand between Leigh Kapserek (17 not out) and Anna Peterson (23 not out) also proved decisive. Medium-pacer Jhulan Goswami, who played a big part while batting in the opening win, and left-spinners Ekta Bisht and Rajeshwari Gayakwad bagged two wickets apiece.

Earlier electing to bat, the Mithali Raj-led India rode on a gritty 61 from Thirish Kamini to manage 163 all out in 49.3 overs. The two teams will next meet on July 3 in the third ODI.

Brief scores: Indian Women 163 all out in 49.3 overs (Thirush Kamini 61, Harmanpreet Kaur 31; Suzie Bates 3-21) lost to New Zealand Women 164/7 in 44.2 overs (Sophie Devine 33, and Katie Perkins 30; Jhulan Goswami 2-14, Ekta Bisht 2-31, Rajeshwari Gayakwad 2-33).

PTI