India Women put on an unforgettable display in the final of the Women’s Tri-Nation ODI Series against Sri Lanka, scoring a staggering 342 for 7—a record for them in Sri Lanka and one of the highest scores in their entire ODI history. This incredible achievement was largely fueled by a dazzling century from Smriti Mandhana, who looked unstoppable right from the start.
Mandhana opened the innings alongside Pratika Rawal. Despite Rawal departing after a solid 30 runs off 49 balls, their partnership of 70 runs laid the groundwork for what turned out to be a historic performance. Mandhana, seemingly unfazed by the loss of her opening partner, took charge and set a commanding tone, going on to score her century in just 92 balls. She showcased her exquisite style by hitting four consecutive boundaries off Chamari Athapaththu in the 31st over. Her innings culminated in a stunning 116 runs off 101 balls, punctuated by 15 beautifully struck boundaries. This milestone marked Mandhana’s 11th ODI century, placing her third in the all-time rankings for the most centuries in women’s ODIs, trailing only Australia’s Meg Lanning (15) and New Zealand’s Suzie Bates (13).
For a long time, the only Indian woman to score a century in an ODI final was Mithali Raj. However, Mandhana joined her club with her remarkable knock. Not only did she make history, but she also set the record for the highest score by an Indian left-hander in an ODI final.
A pivotal partnership developed between Mandhana and Harleen Deol, who came together to add 120 runs for the third wicket. This partnership didn’t just stabilize the innings but also ensured India held onto their momentum. While Mandhana dazzled with her aggressive strokeplay, Harleen kept the scoreboard ticking, finding boundaries at crucial moments and rotating the strike efficiently. Harleen put up a commendable 47 runs off 56 balls, playing a vital role in ensuring that India finished strong.
Even after Mandhana’s departure, the Indian middle order kept the scoring momentum alive. Harmanpreet Kaur added brisk runs with a quick 41 off just 30 deliveries, and Jemimah Rodrigues followed suit with an explosive 44 from 29 balls, ensuring India maintained their high run rate. Towards the end of the innings, Amanjot Kaur (18 off 12) and Deepti Sharma (20* off 14) capped the innings on a high note, hitting 15 runs off the final over to propel the total to a phenomenal 342 for 7.
Sri Lanka’s bowlers faced a tough challenge in containing the Indian batting assault. Sugandika Kumari, Dewmi Vihanga, and Malki Madara did manage to pick up two wickets each, but they also conceded significant runs—59, 69, and 74, respectively. Meanwhile, Inoka Ranaweera had one wicket to show for her efforts but at the cost of 62 runs. Chamari Athapaththu had a tough day out, ending wicketless after giving away 61 runs in her eight overs, while Piumi Badalge’s two overs contributed 17 runs without any success.
India’s impressive total of 342 not only marked a personal best in Sri Lanka but also eclipsed their previous record of 337 for 9 set against South Africa just a match prior. Furthermore, it now stands as the highest-ever total recorded by any team in women’s ODI cricket in Sri Lanka, surpassing the previous marks of 331 by England and 329 by New Zealand. This achievement reiterates India’s burgeoning batting strength and consistency, positioning them as a formidable force in women’s cricket.
This performance is not merely a statistic; it symbolizes the hard work, dedication, and unyielding spirit of the Indian women cricketers. Fans and followers can’t help but feel a sense of pride, rooting for a team that continues to break records and elevate the profile of women’s cricket on the global stage.
Image Source: Smriti Mandhana @ Instagram
