IND W vs IRE W : India Women started their three-match ODI series against Ireland with a commanding six wicket victory at the Saurashtra Cricket Association Stadium in Rajkot on Friday. This historic match marked the first ever women’s cricket game held in Rajkot, and the Smriti Mandhana led side took a 1-0 lead in the series with an impressive performance.
The day began on a special note as India’s bowling all rounder, Sayali Satghare, received her debut cap from skipper Mandhana, adding a memorable milestone to the occasion.
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IND W vs IRE W : 1st ODI – Pratika, Tejal’s Half Centuries Power India Women to 6 Wicket Triumph Over Ireland in Rajkot
Ireland Set a Competitive Target
Winning the toss, Ireland opted to bat first and posted a challenging 238/7 in their 50 overs. Captain Gaby Lewis was the standout performer for the visitors, scoring a stellar 92. She fell just eight runs short of a deserved century but played a pivotal role in steadying Ireland’s innings after they faltered to 56/4 following a double strike by Priya Mishra.
Lewis built a vital 117 run partnership with Leah Paul, who also contributed crucial runs. Late cameos from Coulter Reilly and Georgina Dempsey added momentum to Ireland’s total. On the bowling front, Priya Mishra led India’s attack with figures of 2/38 in her nine overs, while debutant Sayali Satghare claimed her maiden international wicket. Saima Thakor bowled an economical spell, conceding just 30 runs in her 10 overs, though dropped catches deprived her of further impact.
India’s Clinical Chase
India’s chase got off to a flying start, courtesy of a solid 70-run opening stand between Smriti Mandhana and Pratika Rawal. Mandhana’s early aggression allowed Rawal to settle in and build a strong foundation for the innings. After Mandhana’s dismissal, the Irish bowlers managed to apply some pressure in the middle overs. Harleen Deol and Jemimah Rodrigues fell while trying to accelerate, briefly giving Ireland hope.
However, Pratika Rawal and Tejal Hasabnis steadied the ship with a match winning 116 run partnership. Rawal led the charge with a brilliant 89, showcasing her composure and ability to rotate the strike effectively. Tejal complemented her perfectly, scoring a maiden ODI half century and finishing unbeaten alongside Richa Ghosh. India chased down the target in just 35 overs, sealing a professional victory.
Key Performers
Pratika Rawal was named the Player of the Match for her outstanding 89 run knock. Reflecting on her innings, she shared that she feels comfortable in the dressing room and enjoys batting with Mandhana, who takes the pressure off. Tejal Hasabnis also expressed her excitement after her half century, highlighting how her contribution played a crucial role in the team’s victory.
For Ireland, Aimee Maguire impressed with her three wicket haul in eight overs, but the rest of the bowling attack struggled to contain the Indian batters. Laura Delany’s lack of control during her spell, which included multiple no balls, proved costly, allowing India to capitalize on crucial scoring opportunities.
Captains’ Remarks
Smriti Mandhana praised her bowlers for their effort on a flat wicket but admitted that the team could have restricted Ireland to a lower total after having them at 56/4. She emphasized the importance of addressing fielding lapses as the team prepares for the World Cup.
Ireland captain Gaby Lewis commended her team’s batting efforts, particularly their adaptability to the conditions. She highlighted the need for improved bowling discipline ahead of the next match.
The two teams will face off again in the second ODI at the same venue on Sunday, January 12, with the match starting at 11 AM IST. As the series progresses, both teams will be keen to fine-tune their performances in preparation for the upcoming World Cup.
FAQs
Who won the first ODI between India Women and Ireland Women?
India Women won the match by six wickets
Who was the Player of the Match?
Pratika Rawal was named Player of the Match for her brilliant 89 run knock
