The Indian women’s cricket team faced a tough T20 World Cup, where their journey was cut short without a semi-finals appearance. The crushing defeat in their opening match against New Zealand was a significant setback. However, the team has now found its footing, making a strong statement in the ODI format.
On Thursday, October 24, the first ODI of the three-match series between India and New Zealand took place in Ahmedabad, and the home team emerged victorious, defeating the defending T20 World Cup champions by 59 runs. This win not only avenged their earlier defeat but also gave India a 1-0 lead in the series.
Mandhana Takes Charge as Captain
With regular captain Harmanpreet Kaur sidelined for the match, Smriti Mandhana stepped up to lead the team. Winning the toss, Mandhana opted to bat first, a decision that would prove crucial in the outcome of the match.
Despite a shaky start, the Indian batting lineup struggled to find its rhythm, reminiscent of their T20 World Cup performance. Star opener Smriti Mandhana could only manage 5 runs before being dismissed. Fellow opener Shefali Verma contributed 33 runs but failed to convert her start into a substantial innings.
Yastika Bhatia added 37 runs to the score, but it was the middle order that provided some hope. Jemima Rodriguez (35) and Deepti Sharma (41) played vital roles, alongside debutant Tejal Hasanbis, who impressed with her crucial knock of 42 runs. However, Team India couldn’t complete the full quota of 50 overs, losing all their wickets and finishing at 227 runs in just 44.3 overs. New Zealand’s Amelia Kerr was the standout bowler, claiming 4 wickets.
Kiwis Struggle in Chase
Chasing a target of 228 runs, New Zealand’s batting faltered under pressure. They lost their star opener Georgia Plimmer (25) early, followed by captain Sophie Devine, which put them on the back foot.
A brief partnership of 49 runs between Brook Halliday (39) and Maddie Green (31) raised hopes for the Kiwis, but their dismissals triggered a collapse. Eventually, New Zealand was bowled out for a mere 168 runs in 40.4 overs, handing India a decisive victory. Radha Yadav shone with the ball, taking 3 wickets, while debutant Saima Thakor contributed with 2 wickets.
Looking Ahead
With this victory, the Indian women’s cricket team has not only regained confidence but also set a positive tone for the rest of the ODI series. The team will look to maintain their momentum in the upcoming matches against New Zealand, proving their mettle on the international stage.
Fans will be eagerly anticipating how the Indian squad builds on this win, hoping for more outstanding performances as they aim to clinch the ODI series.
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