India secured a comprehensive 121-run victory over Zimbabwe in the second ODI in Vadodara, sealing the series 2-0 with a match to spare. The fixture also marked a significant milestone as Smriti Mandhana’s first series victory as full-time ODI captain, underlining a smooth transition in leadership for the national side. After early setbacks put the hosts under pressure, experienced campaigners stepped up to rescue the innings before the bowling attack dismantled the opposition chase.
- India posted a formidable total of 328 for 6 after slipping to 19 for 2 and later 149 for 4.
- Harmanpreet Kaur scored 126 off 121 balls, while Deepti Sharma added an unbeaten 106 off 86 deliveries.
- The pair combined for a record 155-run fifth-wicket partnership, the highest for India in women’s ODIs.
- Vaishnavi Sharma claimed 4 for 39 in only her second ODI appearance to help bowl Zimbabwe out for 207.
Innings Recovery and Record Partnership
The home side experienced a shaky start on the pitch after losing early wickets inside the powerplay. However, a crucial recovery phase was anchored by Pratika Rawal, who contributed 61 runs to stabilize the innings. Once the middle order was tested, captain Harmanpreet and all-rounder Deepti took complete control of the match. Their magnificent centuries completely shifted the momentum, punishing loose deliveries and rotating the strike efficiently. Their record-breaking partnership took the game away from the visiting side entirely, pushing the total well past the three-hundred mark.
Zimbabwe Chase and Bowling Brilliance
Facing a massive target of 329, Zimbabwe attempted to mount a competitive chase through gritty performances from Modester Mupachikwa, who scored 49, and Chipo Mugeri-Tiripano, who chipped in with 46 runs. Despite their resistance, the run rate pressure mounted steadily against a disciplined bowling unit. Young spinner Vaishnavi Sharma starred with the ball by picking up four crucial wickets, while Deepti capped off a memorable all-round performance by claiming three late scalps. Zimbabwe were eventually bowled out for 207 in the 49th over, handing India a comfortable win and an unassailable series lead.
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