Yastika Bhatia and Jemimah Rodrigues’ incredible partnership helped India regain equilibrium after an early collapse and the loss of both openers with just seven runs scored. In just 76 deliveries, the two put together an incredible 126-run partnership, totally turning the tide in India’s advantage.
In the opening Twenty20 International of the three-match series at Chelmsford, Team India defeated England by a decisive 38 runs to start their preparations for the forthcoming ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2026.
Yastika Bhatia thrilling comeback knock stole the show, even though Rodrigues played her aggressive style of cricket. After a protracted injury break, the left-handed batsman returned to international cricket and led India to a solid total with a calm 52 off 40 balls.
Yastika Bhatia had been out since October 2024 due to a knee injury sustained during a training session. She missed multiple international assignments and the Women’s Premier League earlier this year due to the injury, which necessitated ACL surgery.
As she thought back on the challenging recuperation process, Yastika Bhatia talked candidly about the difficulties she encountered.
“Those who undergo ACL surgery, the whole muscle of that leg goes away. We have to build everything from scratch. After the surgery, it was pretty tough to go through the rehab process. There were days when nothing was happening. No progress was visible. But because of the support, I kept on going, kept showing up and after months, I could see the improvements,” she was quoted as saying by Cricbuzz.
The fashionable hitter thanked everyone who helped her during her recuperation process and called her comeback innings a memorable occasion.
“I’m really grateful. I’m coming back after a long time and the team has welcomed me very nicely. It feels very good to be back. The injury time wasn’t easy, but there were people backing me and supporting me.”
“Behind the scenes, a lot of work has gone into coming back into the team. My family was very supportive during that time. The Centre of Excellence in Bangalore took care of me very well – the physios and trainers. I’m very thankful to them and even the surgeons who did my surgery. All the teammates and team management staff were in touch with me. All’s well that ends well.”
Amy Jones led England’s brief comeback as they chased a difficult aim of 189. The hosts still hoped to mount a late attack at 101/2 after 14 overs. But in the final overs, India’s bowlers showed incredible poise. The pivotal partnership was broken by Shree Charani, and the game was significantly changed in India’s favour by rookie pacer Nandini Sharma.
