Smriti Mandhana’s Century Leads India to Record-Breaking Victory Over Australia in 2nd WODI
Inspired by the remarkable performance of Smriti Mandhana, who scored the fastest century against Australia in Women’s One Day Internationals (WODIs), India achieved a stunning 102-run victory in the second WODI at the Maharaja Yadavindra Singh International Cricket Stadium in Mullanpur. This victory not only ended India’s eight-match losing streak against Australia but also marked their first win over the seven-time world champions at home in 18 years. With this win, India equalized the series 1-1, setting the stage for a thrilling decider in Delhi on September 20, just ahead of the 2025 Women’s ODI World Cup.
Mandhana’s Record-Breaking Century
Smriti Mandhana’s innings was nothing short of spectacular as she scored 117 runs off just 91 balls, including 14 boundaries and four sixes. Her century, reached with a six over mid-off, is now the fastest ever recorded against Australia in WODIs, surpassing the previous record held by England’s Nat Sciver. This remarkable feat also made Mandhana the second-fastest Indian woman to score a century in ODIs, trailing only her own 70-ball century against Ireland earlier this year. With this performance, she not only secured her 12th ODI hundred but also equaled the record for the most centuries by a female opener in ODIs, joining the ranks of New Zealand’s Suzie Bates and England’s Tammy Beaumont.
Mandhana’s achievement is particularly significant as it comes during a crucial phase for the Indian team, with the Women’s ODI World Cup approaching. Her consistent form, having already scored three centuries this year, positions her as a key player for India in the upcoming tournament. This victory against Australia serves as a confidence booster for the team, reinforcing their capabilities on the international stage.
Bowling and Fielding Highlights
India’s bowling attack delivered a commendable performance, successfully restricting Australia to just 190 runs in 40.4 overs. Young seamer Kranti Goud was a standout, taking three wickets for 29 runs in 9.5 overs, including the final wicket of the innings. Off-spinner Deepti Sharma also made a significant contribution, claiming two wickets for 24 runs in six overs. The Indian fielding unit showed marked improvement, with notable catches from pacer Arundhati Reddy and skipper Harmanpreet Kaur, who took a brilliant catch to dismiss Annabel Sutherland.
India’s decision to field three seamers instead of four spinners proved effective, allowing them to adapt their strategy against a formidable Australian side. The absence of explosive opener Phoebe Litchfield, who was rested, may have also contributed to Australia’s struggles. Despite a few dropped catches, the overall performance in the field was a positive sign for the Indian team as they prepare for the World Cup.
Concerns Ahead of the World Cup
While the victory was a significant morale booster, India faces some challenges as they head into the final ODI and the World Cup. Middle-order batter Jemimah Rodrigues has been ruled out of the remaining matches due to viral fever, which is a setback for the team. Additionally, seasoned pacer Renuka Singh Thakur made her return after a long injury layoff but struggled with cramps during the match, limiting her bowling contributions.
Captain Harmanpreet Kaur’s form is another concern, as she has scored only 28 runs across the two matches in the series. Her performance will be crucial as the team looks to solidify their lineup ahead of the World Cup. Despite these challenges, the Indian team remains optimistic, especially with Mandhana’s exceptional form leading the charge. The upcoming decider against Australia will be a critical test for the team as they finalize their preparations for the World Cup starting on September 30 in Guwahati.
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