Harleen Deol’s century and collective bowling brilliance seal the series for India with one match to spare.
Vadodara (Gujarat), December 25: A stellar century from Harleen Deol and a collective bowling effort powered India Women to a commanding 115-run victory over West Indies Women in the second ODI of the three-match series at Kotambi Stadium on Tuesday. With this win, India takes an unassailable 2-0 lead, with the final match scheduled for Friday, December 27.
Harleen Deol Shines as India Posts Mammoth Total
Opting to bat first, India’s top order delivered a commanding performance. Openers Smriti Mandhana (53) and Pratika Rawal (76) forged a solid 110-run partnership, laying a strong foundation. Rawal’s brisk 86-ball 76 showcased her growing confidence in the international arena.
Harleen Deol then took charge, smashing a brilliant 115 off 103 balls, including 16 boundaries. Her explosive partnership with Jemimah Rodrigues (52 off 36 balls) added 116 runs in just 70 deliveries, propelling India to a formidable total of 358/5, equalling their highest-ever ODI score.
Matthews Fights Lone Battle for West Indies
Chasing 359, West Indies skipper Hayley Matthews put up a valiant fight, scoring a magnificent 106 off 109 balls. However, her lone effort wasn’t enough to counter India’s disciplined bowling attack.
Priya Mishra (3/49) led the charge with the ball, while Pratika Rawal (2/37), Deepti Sharma (2/40), and Titas Sadhu (2/42) chipped in with crucial wickets. Despite brief resistance from Shemaine Campbelle (38), Zaida James (25), and Afy Fletcher (22), the visitors were bowled out for 243 in 46.2 overs.
Looking Ahead
With this series win, India remains in contention for a top-two finish in the ICC Women’s Championship standings. The final ODI on December 27 will give India an opportunity to clean sweep the series and strengthen their position on the global stage.
Brief Score:
- India Women: 358/5 in 50 overs (Harleen Deol 115, Pratika Rawal 76, Qiana Joseph 1/27)
- West Indies Women: 243 in 46.2 overs (Hayley Matthews 106, Shemaine Campbelle 38, Priya Mishra 3/49)
