Sports Desk: India Women’s cricket team began their three-match ODI series against the West Indies with a resounding victory, defeating the visitors by a staggering margin of 211 runs in the first match. The game, held at a packed stadium, showcased stellar performances from India’s Smriti Mandhana and Renuka Singh Thakur.
India’s Batting Domination
Batting first, Team India set a formidable target of 315 runs, with Smriti Mandhana continuing her dream form. Mandhana smashed 91 runs, narrowly missing out on her century by just 9 runs. Her innings included elegant strokes and dominating shots, earning her a standing ovation. Her consistency this year has been phenomenal, as she now holds the record for the most runs in a calendar year in women’s international cricket, with 1602 runs, surpassing South Africa’s Laura Wolvaardt (1593 runs).
Support came from other batters, with captain Harmanpreet Kaur and Yastika Bhatia making notable contributions. Their combined efforts ensured India posted a daunting 314 on the scoreboard.
Renuka Singh Thakur’s Magical Spell
India’s bowling attack was spearheaded by Renuka Singh Thakur, who delivered a masterclass in swing bowling. Renuka took five wickets for just 29 runs in her 10-over spell, including a maiden over. Her disciplined bowling dismantled the West Indies’ batting lineup, bundling them out for a meager 103 runs. For her incredible performance, Renuka was awarded the Player of the Match.
Expressing her joy, Renuka said, “The team motivates me to perform better. Harmanpreet’s trust in my bowling boosts my confidence.”
Captain’s Delight
Captain Harmanpreet Kaur was full of praise for the team. She said, “Smriti’s batting is unbelievable. Renuka’s spell was the turning point. Our fielding has improved tremendously, and today’s performance reflects the hard work of the entire team.”
Smriti Mandhana’s Record-Breaking Year
Smriti Mandhana’s form in 2024 has been sensational. Her 1602 runs in a calendar year now place her at the top of the record books for women’s international cricket. The updated list of most runs in a calendar year:
- Smriti Mandhana – 1602 runs (2024)
- Laura Wolvaardt – 1593 runs (2024)
- Nat Sciver-Brunt – 1346 runs (2022)
- Smriti Mandhana – 1291 runs (2018)
- Smriti Mandhana – 1290 runs (2022)
Match Scorecard
- India Women (INDW): 314/9 (50 overs)
- West Indies Women (WIW): 103 (26.2 overs)
- Result: India Women won by 211 runs
- Player of the Match: Renuka Singh Thakur
With this victory, India leads the series 1-0. The second ODI promises more excitement as the West Indies will look to bounce back, and India will aim to seal the series.
