Courtesy: BCCI
India delivered a commanding performance to clinch the Women's ODI Tri-Series final with a 97-run win over Sri Lanka at the R Premadasa Stadium in Colombo on Sunday, May 11. The star of the show was opener Smriti Mandhana, who struck a sublime 116 off just 101 balls. Her innings, decorated with 15 fours and two sixes, set the foundation for India’s imposing total of 342 for 7. Mandhana’s century was her 11th in ODIs and came at a crucial time, showcasing her composure and class on a slow pitch where playing strokes wasn't easy.
Mandhana’s knock was all the more impactful given the high-pressure setting of a final. She paced her innings expertly, accelerating after a steady start and punishing loose deliveries with trademark elegance. Supported by Harleen Deol (47) and Jemimah Rodrigues (44), Mandhana anchored several key partnerships that kept India in control throughout the innings. Her presence at the crease until the 33rd over allowed India to launch a late surge and post a daunting total.
Sneh Rana pulls up bowling masterclass with fiery spell of 4-38 (9.2)
Defending the large total, India’s bowlers stepped up with clinical precision with the best of the lot being Sneh Rana, who picked up four wickets for 38 runs. Her spell was a masterclass in control and variation, especially in the middle overs where she broke the back of Sri Lanka’s batting. Rana’s first strike came when she removed the dangerous Sri Lanka skipper Chamari Athapaththu for 51, ending Sri Lanka’s hopes of a meaningful chase. She followed it up with three more scalps, including key middle-order batters, ensuring the hosts never got close to the target.
This victory not only secured the tri-series title for India but also highlighted the team's balanced performance across batting and bowling departments. Mandhana's century earned her the player of the match award, while Rana's all-round contribution led to her being given the player of the series award for picking up 15 total wickets in five matches.
