IND-W vs SA-W 3rd ODI Highlights: Smriti Mandhana’s 90 Helps India Seal Series 3-0 Against South Africa
India Women continued their dominant run in the third and final ODI against South Africa Women, securing a comprehensive six-wicket victory at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru on Sunday. With this win, India clinched the series 3-0, marking their 10th clean sweep in ODIs.
Match Recap
After winning the toss, South Africa opted to bat first but struggled to post a competitive total. India’s bowlers put up a disciplined performance, restricting the visitors to a modest 215. The Proteas’ batting line-up faced consistent pressure from the Indian bowlers, making it difficult to build substantial partnerships.
Smriti Mandhana’s Stellar Knock
In response, India got off to a steady start, thanks largely to Smriti Mandhana‘s sublime form. The opener played a crucial role, scoring 90 runs off 102 balls, which included 10 boundaries and a six. Her innings was marked by elegant strokes and smart shot selection, guiding India close to the target. Unfortunately, Mandhana fell just 10 runs short of what could have been her eighth ODI century. Spinner Nonkululeko Mlaba claimed her wicket, leaving India at 171/3 in the 31st over.
Harmanpreet Kaur’s Leadership
Following Mandhana’s departure, Indian skipper Harmanpreet Kaur ensured there were no further hiccups. Kaur played a composed innings, contributing 42 runs off 48 balls. Her leadership on the field was pivotal in keeping the chase on track. Despite being run out with just two runs needed for victory, her performance was crucial in India’s successful pursuit.
Trust me when I say this,
— _Sammy (@samsharma631) June 24, 2024
team environment has never been this great as it is under Harman, and you won't find a vice captain as secure as Smriti 💞🧿 pic.twitter.com/5vsFyZQPa9
Thrilling Finish
As the match neared its conclusion, a bit of drama unfolded. With just two runs required, a direct throw from the South African fielders led to Harmanpreet’s run-out. However, any hopes South Africa had of a miraculous turnaround were quickly dashed. Richa Ghosh came to the crease and sealed the victory in emphatic fashion, hitting a six off Sekhukhune’s delivery to finish the match in style.
Match Details
- Final Score: IND 220/4 in 40.4 overs
- Smriti Mandhana: 90 (102)
- Harmanpreet Kaur: 42 (48)
- Richa Ghosh: 6* (1)
Key Moments
- Mandhana’s Knock: Her 90-run innings set the foundation for India’s chase.
- Harmanpreet’s Contribution: The skipper’s 42 runs ensured stability after Mandhana’s wicket.
- Dramatic Finish: Richa Ghosh’s six ended the game in spectacular fashion.
What’s Next?
With the ODI series concluded, both teams will now head to Chennai for a one-off Test match, followed by a three-match T20I series. The Indian team will look to carry forward their momentum into the upcoming fixtures, while South Africa will aim to bounce back.
Full List of India’s Clean Sweeps in ODIs
This victory adds to India’s impressive record of clean sweeps in ODI cricket. Here are the occasions where the Women in Blue have achieved this feat:
- vs. England (2002)
- vs. West Indies (2004)
- vs. Pakistan (2006)
- vs. Sri Lanka (2013)
- vs. Bangladesh (2013)
- vs. South Africa (2014)
- vs. New Zealand (2015)
- vs. Sri Lanka (2018)
- vs. West Indies (2019)
- vs. South Africa (2024)
India’s consistent performance in the ODI format is a testament to their growing prowess and dominance in women’s cricket.
The third ODI against South Africa was a showcase of India’s cricketing skills, led by an outstanding performance from Smriti Mandhana and ably supported by Harmanpreet Kaur. The team’s ability to perform under pressure and their strategic approach to the game highlight their status as a formidable force in international women’s cricket.
Supriya Karia