The second ODI between India Women and New Zealand Women at the Wankhede Stadium turned into a run-fest as Smriti Mandhana and Jemimah Rodrigues delivered stunning performances, guiding India Women to a mammoth 340/3 in 49 overs before rain interrupted play.
New Zealand captain Sophie Devine had opted to bowl first after winning the toss, hoping to exploit early movement under overcast conditions. However, her bowlers were left chasing the ball all over the park as India’s top order displayed sheer dominance.
Smriti Mandhana, who looked in imperious touch from the very beginning, anchored the innings with a superb 109 off just 95 deliveries, laced with 10 boundaries and 4 sixes. Her timing and placement on both sides of the wicket left the New Zealand fielders helpless.
Mandhana found excellent support from debutant Pratika Rawal, who showcased great maturity with a solid 87 from 107 balls. The duo stitched together a monumental 212-run partnership for the first wicket, laying a perfect foundation for a big total.
After Mandhana’s dismissal at 212/1 in the 34th over—caught by substitute fielder Hannah Rowe off Suzie Bates—India maintained their attacking intent. Rawal followed soon after, caught off Amelia Kerr for 87, but the momentum had already swung firmly in India’s favor.
Jemimah Rodrigues then took charge, smashing an electrifying 76 off just 55 deliveries, including 11 fours. Her aggressive strokeplay and quick running between the wickets kept the scoreboard ticking. Skipper Harmanpreet Kaur (10) and wicketkeeper-batter Richa Ghosh (4*) added the finishing touches before rain stopped play with one over remaining.
For New Zealand, wickets were hard to come by. Suzie Bates and Amelia Kerr were the only bowlers to find success, taking one wicket each, while Rosemary Mair dismissed the Indian captain in the final over. The rest of the Kiwi attack struggled for rhythm, with Jess Kerr and Lea Tahuhu going wicketless and conceding over six runs per over.
At 340/3 in 49 overs, India Women have set a commanding platform, and with rain currently halting play, New Zealand face a challenging task ahead—both with the bat and against the clock.
Whether the match resumes or a DLS adjustment comes into play, India’s batting fireworks have already ensured that the home side holds the upper hand in this high-scoring encounter.
Score Summary:
India Women: 340/3 (49 overs)
Smriti Mandhana – 109 (95), Pratika Rawal – 87 (107), Jemimah Rodrigues – 76 (55)
Wickets: Suzie Bates (1/40), Amelia Kerr (1/69), Rosemary Mair (1/52)
