Smriti Mandhana Leads India to Final ODI Against Ireland

India’s stand-in captain, Smriti Mandhana, chose to bat first after winning the toss in the third and final ODI against Ireland in Rajkot. With the series already secured after two dominant victories, India is now aiming for a clean 3-0 sweep.

Mandhana, confident in her team’s performance, made two changes to the playing XI for this match. Saima Thakor and Priya Mishra were rested, making way for Minnu Mani and Tanuja Kanwar. Ireland, however, opted to retain the same team that played the previous matches.

---

India’s Record-Breaking Performance in the Series

India showcased their batting prowess in the second ODI by posting a massive 370 for 5, the team’s highest-ever ODI total. Speaking ahead of the third match, Mandhana expressed flexibility in their approach, stating, “We do not have a target in mind. We just want to see how it goes.”

Ireland captain Gaby Lewis also mentioned her preference to bat first. “We have had two days off and are well rested,” she said, emphasizing her team’s preparedness for the final showdown.

---

Teams Ready for a Competitive Finale

Here are the squads for both teams:

India:

1. Smriti Mandhana (captain)
2. Pratika Rawal
3. Harleen Deol
4. Jemimah Rodrigues
5. Tejal Hasabnis
6. Richa Ghosh (wicketkeeper)
7. Deepti Sharma
8. Minnu Mani
9. Sayali Satghare
10. Tanuja Kanwar
11. Titas Sadhu

Ireland:

1. Sarah Forbes
2. Gaby Lewis (captain)
3. Christina Coulter Reilly (wicketkeeper)
4. Orla Prendergast
5. Laura Delany
6. Leah Paul
7. Arlene Kelly
8. Ava Canning
9. Georgina Dempsey
10. Freya Sargent
11. Alana Dalzell

India enters the final match with momentum on their side, while Ireland aims to salvage pride in the series finale. Cricket fans are eagerly anticipating another thrilling contest.