Jobaaj Stories
India showcased their batting firepower, posting a massive total in their ODI clash against the West Indies at the Kotambi Stadium, Vadodara. Harleen Deol was the star performer, scoring her maiden international century, supported by half-centuries from Smriti Mandhana, Pratika Rawal, and Jemimah Rodrigues. The innings highlighted India's depth in batting, as they bettered their previous total of 314 with ease.
Harleen Deol's Stellar Knock
Deol, who has been part of India’s ODI experiments since their Australian tour, played a sublime knock of 115. She capitalized on a dropped catch by Deandra Dottin at square leg when she was on 20. Deol started cautiously, reaching her fifty in 62 balls, but switched gears in the latter half of her innings. Her century, marked by an exquisite pull to the deep square leg, came off 98 balls. She later formed a fiery partnership with Jemimah Rodrigues, adding 116 runs off just 71 balls for the fourth wicket.
Jemimah Rodrigues’ Versatility
Rodrigues was exceptional against spin, executing a variety of strokes, including lofted cover drives and deft paddle sweeps. Her ability to accelerate was evident as she smashed a quick half-century off 34 balls. Although her innings ended on a full toss, her contribution ensured India maintained momentum in the middle overs.
Pratika Rawal’s Impressive Debut Knock
Rawal looked vastly improved from her debut, scoring a confident half-century off 58 balls. Her elegant drives and punches stood out, particularly her back-to-back boundaries off Dottin. She played a key role in India’s explosive start, outscoring Smriti Mandhana initially before the vice-captain overtook her.
Smriti Mandhana’s Consistency
Mandhana, now the leading run-scorer in women’s ODIs this year, continued her excellent form. She scored her 29th half-century off just 44 balls, combining power and placement to dominate the spinners. Mandhana and Rawal’s century opening stand laid a solid foundation for India. However, Mandhana fell victim to a mix-up while running between the wickets, ending her brilliant knock prematurely.
Late-Order Fireworks
India scored 184 runs in the last 20 overs, a significant improvement from their previous outing. Contributions from Deol and Rodrigues overshadowed a quieter outing for Richa Ghosh, who managed an unbeaten 13. The aggressive finish highlighted India’s growing confidence in their batting lineup.
West Indies’ Struggles
West Indies struggled with inconsistent bowling and poor fielding, which allowed India to dictate the game. Dottin’s dropped catch proved costly, and their bowlers lacked answers to India’s onslaught. To make a competitive chase, West Indies will need standout performances from their stars, including Mathews and Dottin.
