Renuka Thakur and Deepti Sharma showcased a brilliant bowling performance to lead India to a convincing five-wicket victory over West Indies in the third ODI at the Kotambi Stadium, Vadodara, on Friday. With this win, India swept the three-match ODI series 3-0, leaving the visitors with no answers to the hosts’ all-round dominance.
Thakur and Deepti Shine with Stunning Bowling Spells
Renuka Thakur (4/29) and Deepti Sharma (6/31) delivered match-winning spells, dismantling the West Indies batting lineup. The duo shared all 10 wickets, making it a nightmare outing for the tourists. Thakur, armed with impeccable line, length, and swing, set the stage early in the match, leaving the West Indies top order in tatters.
Her very first delivery sent opener Qiana Joseph back for a golden duck. Thakur then scalped skipper Hayley Matthews—who had been the star in the previous match—and followed it up with the dismissal of power-hitter Deandra Dottin (5), establishing India’s dominance early on.
“There was swing on offer, and I tried to take advantage of the conditions,” shared Thakur, who was named Player of the Series. “In Australia, we didn’t do well, so my focus on returning to India was to improve and pick wickets, especially in my second spell. Working with Jhulan (Goswami) was instrumental in refining my skills.”
Deepti Sharma’s Career-Best Haul
As the new-ball spell from Thakur created early damage, Deepti Sharma took over in the middle overs with her mastery of flight and turn. The off-spinner bamboozled the opposition, claiming her third ODI five-wicket haul with career-best figures of 6/31 in her 10 overs. Her exceptional bowling performance ensured the visitors never found stability in their innings.
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West Indies’ Resilient Partnership in Vain
Despite a precarious start, West Indies showed resilience through a determined 97-run partnership between all-rounder Chinelle Henry (61) and wicketkeeper Shemaine Campbelle (46). Their efforts helped the visitors cross the 150-run mark, with Aaliyah Alleyne (21) also contributing. However, the lack of support from the rest of the batting lineup proved costly, as no other batter managed to reach double digits.
India’s clinical performance in all departments ensured a comfortable chase, underlining their dominance in the series and boosting their confidence ahead of future assignments.
Key Takeaways from India’s Victory
- Bowling Brilliance: The combined efforts of Renuka Thakur and Deepti Sharma highlighted the depth in India’s bowling attack.
- Strategic Adaptations: Thakur’s improved second spell execution and Deepti’s ability to deceive batters were crucial factors.
- Resilience of Opponents: Despite the loss, West Indies’ partnership between Henry and Campbelle stood out as a positive takeaway for the visitors.
This commanding series win serves as a testament to India’s growing strength in women’s cricket, setting the tone for upcoming international fixtures.