Can Shafali and Mamatha Lead India A to Victory Over New Zealand?
Click to start listening
Synopsis
In a thrilling ODI World Cup warm-up, Shafali Verma and Mamatha Madiwala showcased their talents, leading India A to a remarkable four-wicket triumph over New Zealand. As they chase their first World Cup title since 2000, this victory boosts India A's confidence. Stay tuned to learn more about this exciting match!
Key Takeaways
- Shafali Verma's return was marked with an impressive 70 runs.
- Mamatha Madiwala anchored the innings with a steady 56 not out.
- India A successfully chased a revised target of 224 runs.
- Sayali Satghare was the leading bowler with 3/45.
- This match boosts India A's morale ahead of the World Cup.
Bengaluru, Sep 25 (NationPress) Fifties from Shafali Verma and Mamatha Madiwala led India A to a stunning victory over New Zealand by four wickets in the Women’s ODI World Cup warm-up match at the BCCI Centre of Excellence (CoE) Ground 2 on Thursday.
Choosing to bat first, Isabella Gaze scored an unbeaten 101, guiding New Zealand to a total of 273/9 in their 50 overs. After rain interrupted India A’s chase, their target was adjusted to 224 in 40 overs using the DLS method, and they achieved this with just three balls to spare in a thrilling finish against the White Ferns, who are seeking their first ODI World Cup title since 2000.
The shining star of India A’s innings was Shafali, making her comeback after being omitted from the World Cup squad. She dazzled everyone with a quickfire 70 off 49 balls, featuring 11 boundaries and a six.
However, as players like Vrinda Dinesh, Dhara Gujjar, and Tejal Hasabnis fell quickly, India A found themselves in a tricky position at 121/6. Wicketkeeper-batter Mamatha steadied the innings with an unbeaten 56 off 60 balls, including six fours and a six. She was well-supported by all-rounder Minnu Mani, who contributed 39 not out off 53 balls, hitting three fours and a six.
For New Zealand, Suzie Bates and Georgia Plimmer faced early dismissals. Despite some resistance from captain Sophie Devine (34) and Maddy Green (30), India’s bowlers maintained pressure. At one point, New Zealand was struggling at 85/5 before Isabella’s innings ensured they finished with a respectable score of 273.
In terms of bowling, Sayali Satghare was the standout performer for India A, claiming 3/45, while other bowlers like Minnu, Titas Sadhu, Saima Thakor, Priya Mishra, Tanuja Kanwer, and Prema Rawat each took a wicket. This victory adds another achievement to India A’s success, having previously won a 2-1 series against Australia in a multi-format tour last August.
New Zealand will look to rectify their errors before their upcoming warm-up match against the main Indian team, led by Harmanpreet Kaur, at the same venue on Saturday.
Brief Scores: New Zealand 273/9 in 50 overs (Isabella Gaze 101 not out, Jess Kerr 36; Sayali Satghare 3-45, Priya Mishra 1-24) lost to India A 226/6 in 39.3 overs (Shafali Verma 70, Mamatha Madiwala 56 not out; Jess Kerr 2-15, Amelia Kerr 2-26) by four wickets via DLS method
Point of View
I believe this match illustrates the promising talent within India A. Shafali and Mamatha's performances not only reflect individual skill but also highlight the team's potential as they prepare for future competitions. With the World Cup approaching, such victories instill confidence and set a positive tone for the squad.
NationPress
25/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the final score of the match?
India A won by four wickets, chasing down a revised target of 224 runs against New Zealand.
Who were the standout players in the match?
Shafali Verma scored 70 runs, and Mamatha Madiwala contributed 56 not out, both playing crucial roles in India A's victory.
What was the significance of this match for India A?
This victory adds to India A’s growing confidence, especially after their successful series against Australia earlier this year.
When is New Zealand's next warm-up match?
New Zealand will face the main Indian team, led by Harmanpreet Kaur, in their next warm-up match on Saturday.
How did rain affect the match?
Rain interruptions led to a revision of the target for India A, adjusting it to 224 runs in 40 overs using the DLS method.
