IND vs NZ Women’s 3rd ODI Highlights: Smriti’s Century, Harmanpreet’s Half-Century Lead Team India to Series Win
In a thrilling finale, Team India Women clinched the three-match ODI series against New Zealand Women 2-1 with a comprehensive 6-wicket victory at the Narendra Modi Stadium, Ahmedabad. Power-packed performances by Smriti Mandhana, who smashed a brilliant century, and Harmanpreet Kaur’s steady half-century helped India chase down New Zealand’s target of 233 runs in just 44.2 overs.
Smriti Mandhana and Yastika Bhatia’s Vital Partnership
India Women faced an early setback when Shafali Verma was dismissed for just 12 runs, leaving the team at 16/1. Smriti Mandhana then teamed up with Yastika Bhatia, forming a solid 76-run partnership for the second wicket. Despite Yastika’s well-crafted 35 runs, her partnership with Smriti laid the foundation for a stable chase. New Zealand captain Sophie Devine eventually ended Yastika’s innings, but the momentum had already shifted in India’s favor.
Smriti Mandhana’s Record Century and Harmanpreet Kaur’s Steadying Role
After Yastika’s departure, Smriti Mandhana found an able partner in captain Harmanpreet Kaur. Together, they forged a crucial 117-run stand for the third wicket, which firmly placed Team India on the path to victory. Smriti Mandhana registered her eighth ODI century with a superb knock of 100 runs, including 10 boundaries. Although her innings came to an end at the hands of Hannah Rowe, Smriti’s contribution earned her the “Player of the Match” title.
Harmanpreet and Jemimah Finish the Chase
Post Smriti’s exit, Harmanpreet Kaur continued to guide the innings. Jemimah Rodrigues added a quick 22 runs before being dismissed. In the end, Harmanpreet remained unbeaten with 59 runs off 63 balls, decorated with six boundaries, ensuring a comfortable chase for India. Tejal Hasbanis also stayed not out, sealing the series win as India reached 236/4 in 44.2 overs.
New Zealand’s Competitive Total
New Zealand’s innings of 232 runs was led by valuable contributions from their top order. Despite a decent total, Team India’s disciplined bowling and aggressive batting ensured New Zealand couldn’t defend the target. Hannah Rowe and Sophie Devine’s efforts to break partnerships went in vain, as Smriti’s century and Harmanpreet’s composure led India to a series triumph.
Scorecard:
- New Zealand Women: 232 all out (49.5 overs)
- India Women: 236/4 (44.2 overs)
Player of the Series: Deepti Sharma
Deepti Sharma’s all-round performance throughout the series earned her the “Player of the Series” award, recognizing her contributions with both bat and ball across all three ODIs.
With this series win, Team India has reinforced its dominance in the ODI format, showcasing the depth and resilience of its lineup. Fans celebrated Smriti Mandhana’s record-breaking century, which, along with Harmanpreet Kaur’s leadership, proved instrumental in securing India’s 2-1 series victory.
