India’s comfortable victory over Sri Lanka in the first women’s T20I brought an old concern into sharp focus — fielding. Dew was not cited as an excuse, but it was certainly a possible reason for the slippery outfield and awkward handling. Even then, the larger issue goes beyond conditions. India dropped five catches, and that number alone tells a story that cannot be ignored any longer.
This is not a one-off. India’s fielding has been inconsistent for a while now. During the ODI World Cup, there were moments of brilliance mixed with spells of untidiness. The trend continued from the T20 World Cup in Dubai in 2024, where the side looked unconvincing in the field during crucial phases. Vizag, therefore, was not an anomaly, it was another reminder.
Against Sri Lanka, India escaped without damage. Despite the missed chances, the visitors could only manage 121 for six. On another day, with sharper catching, that total could have been far lower. The worry is not about matches like these, but about high-pressure encounters. In crucial games against top teams, dropped catches often become turning points.
Wicketkeeping remains a key area. Richa Ghosh brings immense value as a power-hitter and has excellent skills when collecting wide deliveries or effecting run-outs. However, sharp chances, especially edges that deviate quickly, have to be taken consistently. At this level, keeping standards directly impact results, and competition for spots only makes this more significant.
Fielding also influences selection balance. For players like N Sree Charani, who primarily contribute with the ball, fielding standards become non-negotiable. If misfields continue and batting depth remains limited, alternatives who offer more all-round value will naturally come into the conversation.
Even senior players are not immune. Smriti Mandhana’s dropped catch that went for six was less about technique and more about positioning. Awareness of the boundary and moving sideways, rather than retreating blindly, often makes the difference.
One cannot question the effort put in behind the scenes. Fielding coach, Munish Bali spends extensive time working with the players on fielding drills and preparation. The intent and the work ethic are evident. Yet, something is clearly not translating on match day, and that gap needs urgent attention.
The upcoming World Cup will be played in England, where conditions will be different. Dew will not be the talking point. Execution will. And if India miss chances the way they did in Vizag, it could become a decisive factor in crunch moments. The good news is that the team is aware. The challenge now is turning that awareness into consistency, because at the highest level, fielding often separates champions from contenders.
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