Indian eves lose second ODI against New Zealand

Bengaluru: Unable to carry on the momentum from their opening win, the Indian women's cricket team lost the second ODI to New Zealand by three 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)

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).