In Navi Mumbai on Thursday, India’s women’s ODI team clinched a 53‑run win over New Zealand in the ICC Women’s ODI World Cup, thanks to a DLS‑adjusted target of 325 in 44 overs. The victory secures India a spot in the semi‑finals.
India chased the target with a resounding performance. Smriti Mandhana smashed an aggressive 109 off 95 balls, while Pratika Rawal added 122 off 134. The two batters shared a massive 212‑run partnership that pushed India to a commanding 340/3 in 49 overs. New Zealand fell short, recording 271/8 when rain cut the chase to 44 overs.
Harmanpreet Kaur, India’s skipper, praised her team for their fight. “It wasn’t easy,” she said at the Dr DY Patil Stadium. “Credit goes to the whole squad for how we played.” She highlighted the openers’ responsibility: “We started well, but still needed them to finish. Smriti and Pratika did just that.”
The team also made a key tactical shift by promoting Jemimah Rodrigues to number three. The Mumbai batter powered a quick 76 off 55 balls, adding another burst to India’s total.
When asked about the pressure of playing at home, Kaur said she wants the crowd to feel the excitement. “Everyone expects a lot from us, but we see it as a chance to enjoy the game, not just a burden.” She added she was pleased with the team’s execution after three tough defeats.
Looking ahead, Kaur is eager for the final group match against Bangladesh. “We’ve done well batting, but we need to strengthen our bowling,” she said. “We’ll fine‑tune it before the semi‑finals.”
India’s win, powered by Mandhana’s 109 and Rawal’s 122, sets a strong foundation for the semi‑final showdown in the ICC Women’s ODI World Cup.
Source: ianslive
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