Picture Credit: BCCI
India women have defeated South Africa women by 9 wickets in the second ODI of the five-match series between the two sides. Notably, the Women in Blue have tasted an ODI victory after 488 days. The last time time they won a game in the format was their third ODI of the series against West Indies women. Talking about the game on Tuesday, India bundled out South Africa for mere 157 runs, thanks to Jhulan Goswami’s 4/42 and and Rajeshwari Gayakwad’s 3/37. Mansi Joshi returned figures of 2/23, while Harmanpreet Kaur bowled a maiden over and took one wicket. Later, Smriti Mandhana’s unbeaten 80 and Punam Raut’s 62 not out guided India women home with ease. The series is now levelled 1-1 as South Africa had won the first ODI of the series by 8 wickets.
India women win an ODI after 488 days
It was the third ODI game against West Indies way back on November 6, 2019, when the India women had won a game in the format. The follow-up saw them playing only T20Is till the ICC Women’s World T20 last year. After the mega event, the COVID-19 enforced lockdown put a break on their international games and the side played their next game at the highest level on March 7, 2021. The long break had definitely taken a toll on the Women in Blue as they were overwhelmed by South Africa women in the first ODI. However, Mithali Raj's women have bounced back brilliantly on Tuesday and now the five-match series hangs in balance.
Mandhana’s red-hot form in run-chases continues
With her 80-run knock against South Africa on Tuesday, Smriti Mandhana has become the first player to hit 50+ scores in ten consecutive ODI chases (men’s and women’s category). The southpaw has scored more than 50 runs in every ODI chase since 2018. Mandhana on Tuesday hit an unbeaten 80 off 64 balls. Her innings was laced with 10 fours and 3 sixes.