Pratika Rawal and Smriti Mandhana: India achieved a historic 304-run victory over Ireland in the final ODI in Rajkot, rewriting record books with an extraordinary performance. Centuries from Pratika Rawal (154) and Smriti Mandhana (135) were the highlights of the match, as the hosts posted their highest-ever ODI total of 435/5, surpassing their previous best of 370/5 set just three days earlier.
Mandhana’s decision to bat first after winning the toss set the stage for the carnage. The opening pair of Rawal and Mandhana crafted a stunning 233-run partnership, their fourth century stand in just six innings together. Mandhana, in a rich vein of form, smashed seven sixes during her explosive 80-ball knock, while Rawal exhibited elegant strokeplay, relying on timing and placement.
Ireland Crumbles Under Pressure
Ireland’s bowlers struggled to find their rhythm against India’s left-right combination at the crease. The contrasting styles of Rawal and Mandhana kept the visitors on the back foot, and boundaries flowed freely. Mandhana’s dismissal, caught at short fine leg off a loose delivery, brought Richa Ghosh to the crease, who contributed a brisk 59 off 42 balls to maintain the momentum.
Rawal, having fallen short of a century three times earlier, finally converted her innings into a commanding 154. Her effortless batting was a spectacle, and by the time she departed, India had already surpassed their previous ODI record with six overs to spare. The final overs added 48 runs to the total, taking the score to an imposing 435/5.
Chasing an improbable target, Ireland’s innings faltered early. Despite a spirited 44-ball 41 from Sarah Forbes and a steady 36 from Orla Prendergast, the visitors folded for 131 in just 31.4 overs. Deepti Sharma spearheaded India’s disciplined bowling attack, claiming 3/27 to complete the rout.
Also Read: Smriti Mandhana Creates History with Fastest Century in Women’s ODIs
A Day of Milestones for India
India’s performance not only showcased their batting depth but also highlighted their ability to dominate in all facets of the game. This 304-run victory marked their largest margin of victory in ODIs, underscoring their growing dominance in women’s cricket.
Key Highlights of the Match
- India’s Highest ODI Total: 435/5
- Top Performers: Pratika Rawal (154), Smriti Mandhana (135), Deepti Sharma (3/27)
- Ireland’s Collapse: All out for 131 in 31.4 overs
India’s emphatic win in Rajkot serves as a testament to their exceptional form, setting new benchmarks for excellence in women’s cricket.
Brief Scores:
India 435/5 in 50 overs (Pratika Rawal 154, Smriti Mandhana 135; Orla Prendergast 2-71) defeated Ireland 131 in 31.4 overs (Sarah Forbes 41, Orla Prendergast 36; Deepti Sharma 3-27) by 304 runs.