Mandhana, Kaur Star as India Clinch Series with Thrilling Victory

The second ODI between India and South Africa Women was a run-fest, with centuries from both teams but India ultimately emerging victorious by a narrow margin of 4 runs, securing an unassailable 2-0 lead in the series.

Opener Smriti Mandhana was the star for India with a magnificent 136 off 120 balls. Her knock was decorated with 18 fours and 2 sixes, and it earned her a special mention. Mandhana’s hundred was her seventh in ODI cricket, and it drew her level with Virat Kohli for the number of ODI centuries by an Indian opener. This is a significant achievement, highlighting Mandhana’s consistency and class at the top of the order.

However, Mandhana wasn’t the only centurion for India. Captain Harmanpreet Kaur joined the party with a blistering knock of 103 runs off just 88 balls. Her innings included 9 fours and 3 sixes, and more importantly, the fastest ODI century by an Indian woman. Kaur’s knock propelled India to a formidable total of 325 for 3 wickets, putting the pressure firmly on the South African batters.

South Africa’s chase was valiant, spearheaded by Laura Wolvaardt and Marizanne Kapp. Wolvaardt scored a well-compiled 106, while Kapp’s knock of 101 kept the Proteas in contention. However, despite their efforts, South Africa fell short by just 4 runs, finishing at 321 for 6 wickets.

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The final few overs of the match were a tense affair, with South Africa needing just 11 runs in the last over. However, Indian bowler Pooja Vastrakar held her nerve, conceding only one run and sealing the series win for India.

Key takeaways from the match:

• Smriti Mandhana’s 136 equals Virat Kohli’s record for ODI centuries by an Indian opener.
• Harmanpreet Kaur’s 103 is the fastest ODI century by an Indian woman.
• India clinch the series with a thrilling 4-run victory.

Looking ahead:

The third and final ODI of the series will be played on June 23rd. While India have already secured the series win, both teams will be looking to end the tour on a high.

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.