How Did Smriti and Pratika Propel India into the Semis with a Win Over NZ?
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Synopsis
In a thrilling encounter, India's openers, Smriti Mandhana and Pratika Rawal, delivered match-winning centuries, propelling India to a 53-run victory over New Zealand in the ICC Women's ODI World Cup. Their impressive partnership and strategic bowling secured India's place in the semifinals, making it a memorable match for fans.
Key Takeaways
- Smriti Mandhana scored 109 runs, while Pratika Rawal contributed 122 runs.
- India's openers formed a monumental partnership of 212 runs, marking a record in ODIs.
- India secured their semifinal spot with this win, alongside other strong teams.
- New Zealand fell short despite valiant efforts, showcasing competitive spirit.
- Rain interruptions altered the match dynamics significantly.
Navi Mumbai, Oct 23 (NationPress) Opening batswomen Smriti Mandhana and Pratika Rawal delivered exceptional performances, each scoring centuries and forming a monumental 212-run partnership, leading to India’s 53-run victory over New Zealand via the DLS method in a rain-affected Match 24 of the ICC Women's ODI World Cup on Thursday.
This victory secured India's position in the semifinals with six points, alongside Australia, England, and South Africa, with one match remaining. Even if both India and New Zealand finish with six points (assuming India loses to Bangladesh and New Zealand triumphs over England), India will still advance due to having more wins (3 against 2).
Madhana showcased her stroke-play prowess, scoring a remarkable 109 off 95 balls, while Rawal began cautiously before unleashing her aggression, finishing with 122 off 134 balls. India set a target of 340/3 in 49 overs. Another rain interruption led to New Zealand facing a revised target of 325 in 44 overs, but they fell short by 53 runs, despite commendable performances from Brooke Halliday, Isabella Gaze, and Amelia Kerr.
Halliday contributed an 81 off 84 balls while Gaze added a quickfire 65 not out as New Zealand reached 271/8 in pursuit of the revised target. The match faced two rain delays, impacting the innings significantly.
India's innings began with a strong foundation as Mandhana and Rawal combined for their record 212-run opening stand, the highest for India in ODIs. This also marked their fourth 150-plus partnership, tying for the most by any pair in ODI history, alongside Belinda Clark-Lisa Keightley and Suzie Bates-Amy Satterthwaite.
As the match progressed, India’s bowlers maintained tight control, ultimately leading to New Zealand's collapse after a promising start.
In summary, India's triumph exemplified their batting depth and bowling precision, securing their semifinal berth in the tournament.
Brief scores: India 340/3 in 49 overs (Smriti Mandhana 109, Pratika Rawal 122, Jemimah Rodrigues 76 not out; Suzie Bates 1-40, Rosemary Mair 1-52) New Zealand (revised target 325 in 44 overs) (Brooke Halliday 81, Isabella Gaze 65 not out, Amelia Kerr 45; Renuka Singh 2-25, Kranti Gaud 2-48) by 53 runs via DLS method.
Point of View
It's clear that India's performance in this match exemplifies their growth and resilience in the tournament. The openers' centuries not only showcased their talent but also highlighted the depth of the team. This victory reinforces India's status as a formidable contender in the World Cup.
NationPress
23/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What were the match conditions during the game?
The match experienced two interruptions due to rain, impacting the overs and resulting in a revised target for New Zealand based on the DLS method.
Who were the standout players for India?
The standout players were Smriti Mandhana and Pratika Rawal, both scoring centuries and forming a crucial partnership.
What does this victory mean for India in the World Cup?
This victory secures India's place in the semifinals of the ICC Women's ODI World Cup, showcasing their potential and strength as a team.
