Raipur
Win Projections to be updated soon
India achieved a remarkable victory over South Africa in a high-scoring contest. India scored 325 for 3 with Smriti Mandhana hitting 136 and Harmanpreet Kaur unbeaten on 103*, while South Africa managed 321 for 6, powered by Laura Wolvaardt’s unbeaten 135 and Marizanne Kapp’s 114. India sealed the series 2-0 with a nail-biting last-ball win in Bengaluru.
SA start brilliantly with the ball
South Africa’s strong start with the ball initially put pressure on India, restricting them to a slow start.
The second ODI witnessed a different pitch, challenging the Indian batters with movement and variable bounce. However, Mandhana and Harmanpreet’s partnership turned the tide in India’s favor.
The game-changing partnership
Mandhana and Harmanpreet’s partnership revitalized India’s innings, turning a slow start into a formidable total.
The pitch eased out later in the innings, allowing the batters to accelerate and put pressure on the South African bowlers.
Mandhana’s classy century and Harmanpreet’s aggressive innings showcased India’s batting strength and depth.
Harmanpreet’s explosive century and Mandhana’s stylish knock powered India to a commanding total, putting South Africa under pressure.
Despite a late fightback from South Africa’s batters, India held their nerve to secure a thrilling victory.
Kapp and Wolvaardt fight back
Kapp and Wolvaardt’s resilient partnership brought South Africa back into the game, challenging India’s total.
With important World Cup qualification points at stake, South Africa’s batters fought hard but fell agonizingly short of the target.
Despite a shaky start, Kapp and Wolvaardt displayed composure and skill to keep South Africa in the chase.
South Africa’s valiant effort, led by Kapp and Wolvaardt, kept the match in the balance till the very end, but India’s strong performance secured a narrow victory.
Nadine de Klerk’s contribution towards the end added drama to the match, but ultimately South Africa couldn’t cross the finish line.
Srinidhi Ramanujam is a sub-editor with ESPNcricinfo
