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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Among the ten teams is the Indian women’s cricket team, which has been placed in Group A, alongside defending champions Australia, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, and New Zealand. As the tournament unfolds, all eyes will be on the Indian squad, particularly on three star batters who are expected to light up the matches with their explosive batting.

Top Indian Batsmen to Watch

3. Shefali Verma

Shefali Verma has quickly established herself as a formidable opener for the Indian team, renowned for her aggressive batting style. Having made her T20 World Cup debut in 2020, she has scored 265 runs in 10 matches at an impressive strike rate of 134.51 across two editions. Although her performance in the recent warm-up matches was less than stellar, her previous form suggests she is ready to take on the UAE pitches and deliver some memorable innings.

2. Jemima Rodrigues

Jemima Rodrigues has shown promise in the warm-up matches leading up to the tournament, exhibiting her knack for pacing her innings. Known for her ability to assess difficult situations and strike when necessary, Rodrigues is anticipated to make a significant impact on the UAE pitches. Her combination of patience and style could prove vital for Team India’s campaign.

1. Smriti Mandhana

At the top of the list is Smriti Mandhana, often regarded as India’s biggest run machine. With her exceptional performances in white-ball cricket, Mandhana has become a linchpin in the batting lineup. There are high expectations for her in this World Cup, and if she can find her rhythm, Team India’s chances of lifting the trophy will significantly improve. Mandhana’s experience and skill make her a player to watch as the tournament progresses.

Conclusion

As the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2024 unfolds in the UAE, the excitement is palpable. With a strong Indian team featuring dynamic batters like Shefali Verma, Jemima Rodrigues, and Smriti Mandhana, fans can look forward to exhilarating performances and unforgettable moments. Stay tuned as these talented players aim to lead India to victory in this prestigious tournament!

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