India’s chances in the Women’s T20 World Cup 2026 have taken a hit following a six-wicket loss to South Africa on Sunday, June 21, at Old Trafford, Manchester, in match No. 18. After starting the tournament with strong victories over Pakistan and the Netherlands, this defeat has made qualifying for the semi-finals more challenging.
The Indian team faced backlash online after the loss. They were in a good position during the match, with South Africa at 25/2 in the second innings while chasing a target of 159 runs. However, Marizanne Kapp turned the game around with an impressive 81 not out off 45 balls, leading her team to victory.
Indian fast bowler Shikha Pandey addressed the negative comments, emphasizing that while constructive criticism is valid, online abuse should not be tolerated.
“To everyone criticizing the Indian players after today’s loss to South Africa—constructive criticism is valid, but online abuse is not. It’s important to understand the difference,” Pandey stated on her official ‘X’ (formerly Twitter) account.