Rajkot: India Women set a new benchmark in One-Day International cricket, posting their highest-ever total of 370/5 after choosing to bat first on a flat, run-friendly pitch against Ireland Women here on Sunday.
This commanding total surpasses their previous best of 358, also set against Ireland, marking a significant milestone in their ODI history.
The opening duo of Smriti Mandhana (73 off 54 balls, 10 fours, 2 sixes) and Pratika Rawal (67 off 61 balls, 8 fours, 1 six) laid the foundation with a blazing 156-run partnership in just 19 overs. Their aggressive stroke play sent the scoreboard ticking at a rapid rate, putting the Irish bowlers under immense pressure. However, the momentum shifted when both were dismissed off consecutive deliveries, which allowed Ireland to slow down the scoring tempo.
With the game hanging in the balance, the experienced Jemimah Rodrigues (102 off 91 balls, 12 fours) and the dependable Harleen Deol (89 off 84 balls, 12 fours) steadied the ship.
Though the pair took their time to find their rhythm, they expertly built the innings, accumulating crucial runs during a 10-15 over phase. During this period, Ireland’s Georgina Dempsey impressed with some tight bowling, emerging as the pick of the Irish attack.
As the innings neared its conclusion, India accelerated with a flourish, smashing 102 runs in the final 10 overs. Jemimah, who had been solid throughout, celebrated her first international century, underlining her growing influence in the middle order.
Reflecting on her achievement, Jemimah said, "This century means a lot to me, especially after a long wait. More than anything, I'm thankful to the team for giving me the role at number four, and I'm glad I could deliver. The key today was to be there at the crease until the 50th over. I know I can score runs, but the real challenge was ensuring I stayed till the end. The hundred came along as a result, but the key was to stay in."
Jemimah also credited her partner, Harleen Deol, for providing invaluable support during their crucial partnership. "Harleen kept encouraging me to stay focused and keep playing. When she walked out to bat, she told me, 'Do it for me today,' and that gave me a lot of motivation," Rodrigues added.
With the daunting total now posted, India’s bowlers will look to execute their plans with precision. Rodrigues emphasized that the team’s mindset remains focused on professionalism: "We’ve spoken in the dressing room that no matter the total, we must bowl according to our plans and execute them well."
India will now aim to defend this imposing total, with a confident yet disciplined approach, hoping to secure a dominant victory in this high-scoring thriller.