India Women Crush South Africa by 6 Wickets, Complete Dominant 3-0 ODI Series Sweep
The Indian Women’s Cricket Team sealed a resounding 3-0 series victory over South Africa with a convincing six-wicket win in the final ODI played at M. Chinnaswamy Stadium, Bengaluru on Sunday. Smriti Mandhana’s brilliant knock of 90 runs steered India to victory, chasing down a target of 216 with 9.2 overs to spare.
Mandhana’s Masterclass
Chasing the modest total, the Indian top order got off to a steady start. Mandhana, the vice-captain, displayed her exceptional batting talent, anchoring the chase with a composed 90-run innings off 83 balls. Her knock was decorated with 11 boundaries, and she played the pivotal role in guiding India towards a comfortable win.
Middle Order Mayhem
Openers Shafali Verma (25) and Mandhana provided a solid foundation at the beginning. After Verma’s dismissal, Priya Punia (28) chipped in with a valuable contribution. Later, Harmanpreet Kaur (42) played a crucial knock, ensuring India maintained a healthy run rate. With substantial contributions from the top and middle order, India chased down the target with ease, reaching 220/4 in 40.4 overs.
South Africa’s Batting Held Back
Earlier, electing to bat first, South Africa’s batting failed to capitalize fully. Openers Laura Wolvaardt (59) and Tazmin Brits (48) provided a decent start, but the middle order faltered. The Indian bowling attack, led by Arundhati Reddy (2/36) and Deepti Sharma (2/27), kept things tight, restricting South Africa to a total of 215/8 in their 50 overs.
Dominant Series Win for India
This comprehensive victory in the final ODI sealed a dominant 3-0 series win for the Indian Women’s team. Smriti Mandhana’s batting prowess throughout the series was a key factor in India’s success. The bowlers also displayed commendable discipline and control, keeping the South African batters in check. This series win further strengthens India’s position as a force to be reckoned with in Women’s ODI cricket.
South Africa’s Bowling Performance
Despite a strong start from South Africa’s batters, the Indian bowlers managed to restrict them to a total of 215/8. Arundhati Reddy and Deepti Sharma were the pick of the Indian bowling attack, claiming two wickets each and effectively stifling the South African momentum.
This emphatic victory in the third ODI sealed a comprehensive 3-0 series win for India. The win signifies India’s strong performance throughout the series, having dominated both with bat and ball in the previous matches as well.
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Mandhana’s Record-Breaking Feat
With her brilliant knock, Mandhana etched her name in the record books. Her performance secured her the distinction of scoring the most runs by an Indian woman in a bilateral ODI series.
This clinical performance by the Indian Women’s Cricket Team serves as a testament to their exceptional talent and growing dominance in the ODI arena.
DISCLAIMER: This team is based on the understanding, analysis, and instinct of the author. While selecting your team, consider the points mentioned and make your own decision.
