Mandhana hails India’s bowling efforts and partnerships as key to their dominant win in the first ODI against Ireland in Rajkot.
Rajkot (Gujarat), January 10: India Women kicked off their three-match ODI series with a commanding six-wicket victory over Ireland at the Saurashtra Cricket Association Stadium in Rajkot on Friday. Skipper Smriti Mandhana praised her team’s bowling unit for their impressive performance on a flat pitch, while also highlighting areas for improvement in fielding.
“To bowl on these sorts of wickets, which have nothing in them, the bowlers did a really good job,” said Mandhana during the post-match presentation. “Fielding is something we can get better at. Having good conversations in the last two or three days helped… the way they executed the slower balls and bouncers.”
Chasing 239 with Ease
Mandhana set the tone for India’s chase, smashing 41 off just 29 balls, including six boundaries and a six. Alongside opener Pratika Rawal, who scored a steady 89 off 96 balls, the duo gave India a solid start.
The star partnership came from Tejal Hasabnis (53* off 46 balls) and Pratika Rawal, who put on a match-defining 116-run stand. Tejal’s aggressive stroke play, supported by Richa Ghosh’s quick-fire 8*, ensured India reached the target in just 35 overs.
Ireland’s Resilient Batting Effort
Earlier, Ireland posted a competitive 238/7 after winning the toss. Captain Gaby Lewis anchored the innings with a stunning 92 off 129 balls, laced with 15 boundaries. Leah Paul added 59 runs to provide stability at the top.
India’s bowlers, led by Priya Mishra (2/38), restricted the visitors with disciplined spells. Sayali Satghare also picked up her maiden international wicket, contributing to the team’s efforts.
Ireland’s Bowling Struggles
Despite Aimee Maguire’s three-wicket haul, Ireland’s bowlers struggled to contain India’s aggressive batting lineup. Maguire finished with figures of 3/45 in her eight overs, but the lack of support from the other bowlers allowed India to cruise to victory.
What’s Next?
With India leading the series 1-0, the teams will meet for the second ODI in Rajkot, where the Women in Blue will aim to continue their dominance, while Ireland looks to bounce back.
