Bengaluru
A determined century from Vice-captain Smriti Mandhana helped India recover from a shaky start and post a competitive 265 for eight against South Africa in the first women’s ODI on Sunday. Mandhana scored 117 off 127 balls, including 12 fours and a six, achieving her sixth ODI century.
Mandhana and Deepti Sharma, who contributed 37 runs off 48 balls, forged an 81-run partnership for the sixth wicket. Pooja Vastrakar added 31 not out, supporting Mandhana in a 58-run stand for the seventh wicket, lifting India from a precarious 99 for five after opting to bat first.
Although Mandhana is known for her stylish batting, she had to adjust her game due to the challenging pitch and early dismissals of key players like Shafali Verma (7), Captain Harmanpreet Kaur (10), and Jemimah Rodrigues (17). With India in trouble, Mandhana focused on preserving her wicket and guiding the team forward.
She played a balanced innings, capitalizing on opportunities when available. Notable shots included a pull off debutant pacer Anne Dercksen and an elegant drive over mid-on against off-spinner Nondumiso Shangase.
Deepti Sharma also played a crucial role, accumulating runs with precise shot selection, particularly against Shangase. Despite being undone by a low-bouncing delivery from Ayabonga Khaka, Deepti’s contribution was vital.
Mandhana reached her century with a six off Masabata Klaas, followed by a single to complete the milestone in 116 balls, earning applause from both the crowd and her teammates. The local supporters cheered enthusiastically for the Royal Challengers Bengaluru captain until she was eventually dismissed by Klaas.
