Bengaluru, June 21, 2024 – In a nail-biting encounter at the M. Chinnaswami Stadium, the Indian women’s cricket team edged out South Africa by 4 runs in the second match of the three-match ODI series. This victory gives India an unassailable 2-0 lead in the series.
Batting first, India set a formidable target of 326 runs. Vice Captain Smriti Mandhana was in stellar form, scoring a breathtaking 136 runs off 120 balls. She was well supported by Harmanpreet Kaur, who contributed a solid 103 runs. Their partnership laid a strong foundation for India, resulting in a challenging total for the South African team.
South Africa’s chase got off to a rocky start with early wickets tumbling due to incisive bowling by Arundhati Reddy, Deepti Sharma, and Smriti Mandhana. However, the experienced Laura Wolvaardt and Marizanne Kapp staged a remarkable recovery. Both players scored centuries and built a resilient fourth-wicket partnership, bringing South Africa back into contention.
As the match reached its climax, South Africa needed just 6 runs in the final over to level the series. Pooja Vastrakar, keeping her composure under immense pressure, took two crucial wickets in the over, derailing South Africa’s momentum. Despite a valiant effort by South African skipper Wolvaardt, her team fell just short of the target.
This victory highlights the depth and resilience of the Indian women’s cricket team. Mandhana’s all-round performance with both bat and ball, along with Kaur’s consistent batting, were pivotal in securing the win. The match also showcased the strength of India’s bowling attack in high-pressure situations.
The final match of the series promises to be another exciting encounter as South Africa will look to salvage some pride, while India will aim for a clean sweep. The thrilling finish to this game sets the stage for what could be a fitting conclusion to a highly competitive series.
