India’s dynamic batter Smriti Mandhana shone brightly in Ahmedabad, delivering a record-breaking century that guided India to a six-wicket win and sealed a 2-1 ODI series victory over New Zealand. Mandhana’s performance set a new milestone, as she claimed her eighth ODI century, surpassing the previous record for the most hundreds by an Indian woman in ODIs—a record previously shared with Mithali Raj.
In a series that had kept fans on edge, India and New Zealand entered the final ODI tied 1-1, making this match the ultimate decider. New Zealand opted to bat first, and India responded with a disciplined bowling attack that saw early breakthroughs. New Zealand’s batting lineup struggled to build a steady momentum after losing three key wickets by the eleventh over. However, Brooke Halliday fought back resiliently with a stunning 86 off 96 balls, forming a vital 64-run partnership with Isabella Gaze to help New Zealand reach a respectable 232 runs in 49.5 overs. India’s bowlers, led by Deepti Sharma, took a collective five wickets, while Priya Mishra and Renuka Singh also contributed with key dismissals.
India’s chase began on a shaky note, with the early departure of Shafali Verma, who scored just 12 runs. But Mandhana anchored the innings and, along with Yastika Bhatia, built a steady partnership of 76 runs for the second wicket. Bhatia’s 35 runs laid the foundation for what would be a crucial partnership between Mandhana and captain Harmanpreet Kaur. Together, they amassed a 117-run stand, putting India within reach of the target. Harmanpreet’s brisk 59 not out and Mandhana’s calculated approach to reach her century off 121 balls were instrumental in setting the stage for victory. Mandhana’s innings came to an end shortly after her century, but by then, India needed just 23 more runs, which Jemimah Rodrigues swiftly contributed with a quick 22-run cameo.
This victory over New Zealand not only highlights India’s depth and resilience but also underscores the impact of experienced players like Mandhana and Harmanpreet in high-pressure situations. Their composed performances in chasing down a competitive total have been a testament to India’s evolving strength in the women’s game, particularly in the ODI format where they are becoming increasingly consistent on the global stage. As the team heads toward their next series against Australia, both fans and players are hopeful that India’s blend of youth and experience will keep them competitive against one of the world’s top-ranked sides, adding further excitement as India builds momentum for the upcoming Women’s Cricket World Cup in 2025.
India’s recent performance against New Zealand has amplified their growing reputation in international women’s cricket, particularly in the One Day International format. Smriti Mandhana’s record-breaking century has not only boosted her career profile but also served as inspiration for younger players in the squad. Rising stars like Shafali Verma, who is already making waves with her aggressive batting, are learning from seasoned campaigners like Mandhana and Harmanpreet Kaur. This blend of experience and fresh talent is proving to be a solid foundation for the team, as they look to fortify their approach against stronger opponents like Australia in the upcoming series.
Mandhana’s century also highlights the importance of consistency and adaptability in the Indian women’s team, especially when facing tough bowling attacks on challenging pitches. Throughout the series, India showcased improvements in pacing their innings, an area that had been a point of contention in prior international tournaments. Under the leadership of Harmanpreet Kaur, players like Yastika Bhatia and Deepti Sharma have embraced their roles with greater precision, contributing to India’s success in high-pressure chases. This focus on calculated partnerships and resilience at the crease will be critical as India prepares to take on Australia, where they will likely encounter tougher conditions and a formidable bowling lineup.
Looking ahead, the team’s current form and recent series win will be essential as they seek to maintain a competitive edge in the ICC Women’s Championship. Each series in this championship contributes crucial points toward qualification for the 2025 Women’s Cricket World Cup, a primary goal for the team. India’s players are fully aware that consistent performances in bilateral series against top teams will be key to cementing their place in the tournament. This victory over New Zealand not only improves their standings but also builds confidence and provides a strategic roadmap for the path forward, reinforcing their aspirations for World Cup success.
Mandhana’s century marked a career-defining moment as she etched her name further into the history of Indian women’s cricket. The triumph bolstered India’s standing in the ICC Women’s Championship, securing valuable points in their quest for a place in the 2025 ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup. With this win, India rose to third place in the championship standings, while New Zealand remains at sixth.
As India prepares for their next challenge in December—a high-stakes three-match ODI series against Australia—the win against New Zealand brings not only confidence but also a renewed momentum.