In the final IND W VS SA W 3rd ODI in Bengaluru, a stellar performance from Smriti Mandhana and sharp bowling by Arundhati Reddy propelled India to a six-wicket victory over South Africa, securing a 3-0 series sweep. South Africa set a massive target of 215, however, India who had already clinched the series did a third on the Proteas.
India begin with a dominant win in first IND W vs SA W ODI
The series began with India asserting their dominance in the first ODI. Batting first, they posted a formidable total of 265 for 8 in 50 overs. The Indian bowlers then delivered an exceptional performance, dismissing South Africa for just 122 runs in 37.4 overs. Rajeshwari Gayakwad and Pooja Vastrakar were particularly impactful, taking crucial wickets and ensuring a comfortable 143-run win for India.
Women in Blue keep their momentum in 2nd
The second ODI at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium was a thrilling encounter. Opting to bat, India saw centuries from Mandhana and Harmanpreet Kaur. Kaur’s unbeaten 103 off 88 balls, complemented by Mandhana’s effort, led India to a commanding total of 296 for 5. Despite a valiant chase from South Africa, highlighted by Wolvaardt’s brilliant century, India’s bowlers held their nerve in a nail-biting finish, securing a narrow 4-run victory and sealing the series with a game to spare.
Smriti Mandhana shines in IND W vs SA W
In the final match, Mandhana’s near-century performance stood out. Although she fell short at 90, her innings was the highest in a three-match women’s series, surpassing Wolvaardt’s 335 against Sri Lanka in April 2024. Mandhana built crucial partnerships, including a 61-run stand with Shafali Verma (25) and a 62-run stand with Priya Punia (28), India’s new number three. Her 11 boundaries, predominantly on the offside, showcased her dominance. Alongside Harmanpreet Kaur, who scored 42 off 48 balls, Mandhana shared a 48-run partnership off 47 balls, effectively neutralizing the South African attack.
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