Team D defeated Team E by 40 runs in the Senior Women’s One-Day Challenger Trophy match on Thursday, January 9, at the Sri Ramachandra Medical College in Chennai. (More Cricket News)

The match started with Team E winning the toss and electing to bowl first in the Senior Women’s One-Day Challenger Trophy. Team D, batting first, posted an imposing total of 263/7 in their 50 overs.

Reema Sisodia led the charge with a brilliant 61 off 79 balls, supported by Kanika Ahuja's aggressive 65 off 60 balls. Wicketkeeper Laxmi Yadav added a crucial unbeaten 40 off 33 balls to propel the team to a competitive score.

Despite wickets falling at regular intervals, Team D's batters maintained a steady run rate.

During the chase, Team E's batters struggled to shine, falling short of the target and managing only 223/9 in their 50 overs.

Captain S Shubha top-scored with 34 off 37 balls, hitting seven boundaries, but could not capitalize on her start.

"Yes, Harendra is in line to replace Janneke. Hockey India is keen to appoint him. He knows the structure of Indian hockey having coached both the men's and women's teams in the past. He is the best person to take the women's side to where it belongs," a source in the national federation told PTI.

Monika Nag (7th, 40th) struck a brace, while skipper Anjna Dungdung (5th) also found the back of the net at the Major Dhyanchand Hockey Stadium.

After losing quick wickets6dcasino, Ayushi Soni fought valiantly with an unbeaten 61 off 90 balls, striking six boundaries, but found little support from the lower order.