Did Smriti Mandhana's 116 Power India to a Dominant 342/7 Against Sri Lanka in the ODI Tri-Series?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Smriti Mandhana showcased exceptional batting skills with 116 runs.
- India set a record total of 342 runs in women's ODIs in Sri Lanka.
- Strong partnerships were pivotal for India's innings.
- Sri Lankan bowlers struggled to maintain pressure.
- Debut of seam-bowling all-rounder Kranti Goud adds depth to the squad.
Colombo, May 11 (NationPress) Vice-captain Smriti Mandhana spearheaded a remarkable Indian batting display, achieving an impressive 116 runs off 101 balls, which propelled the visitors to a formidable total of 342/7 during their 50 overs in the women’s ODI tri-series final held at the R Premadasa International Cricket Stadium on Sunday.
On a pitch that initially posed challenges but became more favorable to bat as the innings unfolded, Smriti was the star of the day, showcasing her elegance and skill with the bat. This innings marked her 11th ODI century and established the highest total ever recorded in a women’s ODI match in Sri Lanka.
After being dropped on 21 by Inoka Ranaweera, Smriti made the most of her opportunity, reaching her century off just 92 balls, highlighted by three consecutive boundaries off skipper Chamari Athapaththu in the 31st over.
Interestingly, Smriti's first ODI hundred came against Sri Lanka. She was well-supported by her fellow top-order batsmen, each contributing 30 runs or more. She formed a solid 70-run opening partnership with Pratika Rawal (30) and then a significant 120-run partnership with Harleen Deol (47) for the second wicket.
Following that, captain Harmanpreet Kaur and Jemimah Rodrigues chipped in with scores of 41 and 44, respectively, while late contributions from Deepti Sharma (20 not out) and Amanjot Kaur (18) ensured that India crossed the 340-run mark. For Sri Lanka, it was a disappointing day with the ball as they struggled to contain the Indian batting in the middle overs.
Despite Sugandika Kumari, Malki Madara, and Dewmi Vihanga each claiming two wickets, the Sri Lankan bowling lineup lacked penetration and control. Missed catches and run-outs compounded their woes, allowing India to score 90 runs in the last four overs, leaving Sri Lanka with a daunting task ahead in their pursuit of the tri-series title.
In a noteworthy development, India handed a debut to seam-bowling all-rounder Kranti Goud, who replaced left-arm spinner Shuchi Upadhyay in the playing eleven. Kranti's inclusion marks the participation of all four uncapped players selected for the ongoing series.
She gained recognition through her standout performances for Madhya Pradesh in domestic cricket and for UP Warriorz in the 2025 WPL. Kranti joined the Indian squad in Colombo after seam-bowling all-rounder Kashvee Gautam was ruled out due to a leg injury suffered during the league stage match against South Africa.
Brief scores: India 342/7 in 50 overs (Smriti Mandhana 116, Harleen Deol 47; Sugandika Kumari 2-59, Dewmi Vihanga 2-69) against Sri Lanka.