Mandhana and Prateeksha Rawal’s Heroics Lead India to Record ODI Victory

The Indian women's cricket team achieved a historic victory against Ireland in the third ODI held in Rajkot. The team secured a massive 304-run win, the biggest margin in India's women's ODI history. After opting to bat first, India posted a formidable total of 435 runs for the loss of 5 wickets in their allotted 50 overs. In response, Ireland was bowled out for just 130 runs, giving India a resounding win.

India’s dominance was evident from the start, as the opening partnership between Smriti Mandhana and Prateeksha Rawal yielded a record-breaking 233-run stand. Both openers smashed centuries, with Prateeksha scoring a blistering 154 runs, while Mandhana contributed 135 runs. Richa Ghosh added 59 runs, with Tejal scoring 28 and Harleen chipping in with 15 runs.

On the bowling front, Ireland’s Orla took 2 wickets, while Freya, Kelly, and Dempsey managed a wicket each.

Chasing a daunting target of 436, Ireland’s batting lineup crumbled under the pressure of India’s disciplined bowling attack. While Forbes scored 41 runs and Orla managed 36 runs, the rest of the batters failed to make significant contributions. Deepthi Sharma led the Indian bowlers by taking 3 wickets, followed by Tanuja with 2 wickets. Sandhu, Minnu Mani, and Sayali chipped in with a wicket apiece.

This victory also secured a 3-0 clean sweep for India in the three-match series. Prateeksha Rawal was adjudged both the ‘Player of the Match’ and ‘Player of the Series’ for her outstanding performances throughout the series.