Malhotra, Raj carry India Blue Women to final

A well-compiled unbroken 53-run stand for the fourth wicket between Mithali Raj and Reema Malhotra helped India Blue coast to victory against India Green in the final league match of the Women's Challenger Trophy in Ahmedabad. The experienced duo's partnership not only helped them clinch the match, but also helped them qualify for the final on Tuesday, against the same opponents.

Put in, India Green were given a good start by openers Sulakshana Naik and Poonam Raut, but the batting fell apart after the 47-run stand. With four run-outs in the innings, the eventual total proved to be extremely disappointing.

Latika Kumari led the charge for India Blue during the reply, who had to win to keep their final hopes alive, with a near run-a-ball 28. The going got shaky at 57 for 3 in the 12th over, but Raj and Malhotra took over the reins and took India Green home in the 18th over. Malhotra played the aggressor, hitting five fours during her 23-ball stay, while Raj gave her support with her patient strokeplay.