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In an emphatic display of cricket, India Women crushed West Indies by a massive margin of 211 runs in the opening game of the three-match ODI series in Vadodara.
The match saw standout performances from Smriti Mandhana, who registered a scintillating 91, and Renuka Singh, whose maiden five-wicket haul dismantled the visitors.
India Women took a commanding 1-0 lead in the three-match ODI series against West Indies with a 211-run victory in Vadodara. Smriti Mandhana’s stellar knock of 91 off 102 balls, her fifth consecutive fifty-plus score in international cricket, laid the foundation for India’s imposing total of 314.
Contributions from Harleen Deol (44) and impactful cameos by Harmanpreet Kaur and Richa Ghosh propelled the team to a formidable score.
West Indies struggled from the outset, with Renuka Singh producing a fiery spell to claim her maiden ODI five-wicket haul (5-29). She dismantled the opposition’s top order, leaving them reeling at 26/5.
Despite resistance from Afy Fletcher (24*) and Shermaine Campbell (21), the visitors were bowled out for 103 in just 26.2 overs. India’s all-round dominance showcased their form, setting the stage for a potential series win in the upcoming matches.
Smriti Mandhana Leads India’s Batting Charge
Smriti Mandhana’s stellar knock of 91 off 102 balls was the backbone of India’s batting performance. Registering her fifth successive fifty-plus score in international cricket, Mandhana anchored the innings with a combination of finesse and power. Her effort ensured that India posted an imposing total of 314 runs. Visit billy777 and watch all cricket updates.
The Indian innings began cautiously after being put into bat. Debutant Pratika Rawal (40 off 69) partnered with Mandhana to forge a crucial century opening stand. Although the scoring rate was initially slow due to accurate bowling by the West Indies, the duo laid a solid foundation.
Mandhana’s stroke play shone through as the innings progressed, and Harleen Deol (44 off 50) accelerated after a cautious start. Together, they set the stage for India’s middle-order batters to launch an onslaught.
Middle-Order Cameos Propel India Beyond 300
India’s middle-order batters provided the perfect finish to the innings. Harmanpreet Kaur (34 off 23), Jemimah Rodrigues (31 off 19), and Richa Ghosh (26* off 13) played impactful cameos, scoring briskly to push the total well past the 300-run mark.
Despite their efforts, the West Indies bowlers faltered during the latter stages. Left-arm spinner Zaida James stood out, taking 5 for 45, but the Indian batters’ aggression in the death overs overshadowed her performance.
West Indies Collapse Under Renuka Singh’s Magic
Chasing 314, West Indies needed an extraordinary effort from star players like Deandra Dottin and Hayley Matthews. However, Renuka Singh dashed their hopes with a sensational opening spell.
Renuka struck early, dismissing Matthews and sending Qiana Joseph back through a run-out. The defining moment came when Renuka bowled Dottin, virtually sealing the fate of the West Indies. By the 10th over, the visitors were reeling at 26/5.
Renuka’s fiery bowling earned her figures of 5 for 29, making it a memorable day for the pacer. Priya Mishra provided excellent support with 2 for 22.
Afy Fletcher and Shermaine Campbell Provide Resistance
Despite the top-order collapse, Afy Fletcher (24* off 22) and Shermaine Campbell (21 off 39) showed some resilience. Their efforts helped West Indies breach the three-figure mark, but it was too little, too late.
India’s bowlers maintained relentless pressure, and the match ended with West Indies being bowled out for just 103 in 26.2 overs.
Key Takeaways from the Match
- Smriti Mandhana’s Consistency: With her fifth consecutive fifty-plus score, Mandhana remains a linchpin in India’s batting lineup.
- Renuka Singh’s Breakthrough Performance: Renuka’s maiden ODI five-wicket haul was instrumental in India’s commanding victory.
- Team Effort: Contributions from the top six Indian batters showcased the team’s depth and versatility.
Brief Scores
- India Women: 314/9 in 50 overs (Smriti Mandhana 91, Harleen Deol 44; Zaida James 5-45)
- West Indies Women: 103 in 26.2 overs (Afy Fletcher 24*; Renuka Singh 5-29, Priya Mishra 2-22)
India Women won by 211 runs.
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Final Thoughts
The series’ opening game was a testament to India’s dominance in all game departments. Smriti Mandhana’s brilliance with the bat and Renuka Singh’s devastating bowling ensured a one-sided affair.
As the teams head into the second match, India will look to maintain their momentum, while West Indies will aim to regroup and put up a better fight.
The victory highlighted India’s superior performance in all departments. Smriti Mandhana’s consistency with the bat continues to be a cornerstone of India’s success, as she elegantly anchored the innings with her vast array of strokes.
The middle-order contributions ensured the momentum was sustained throughout the innings, putting West Indies under immense pressure.
