Lucknow: Veteran Jhulan Goswami (4-wicket haul) and opener Smriti Mandhana (80 not out) starred in Indian women’s nine wicket win over South Africa women in the second ODI, to level the five-match series 1-1 at Ekana Cricket Stadium, here on Tuesday.
After choosing to field first, the Indian attack, led by the legendary Jhulan Goswami (4/42), dismantled the South African batting line-up, bowling them out for 157 in 41 overs.
Chasing a modest target, India were off to a flyer, courtesy Smriti Mandhana, who hit back-to-back sixes on the first two deliveries she faced. Her opening partner Jemimah Rodrigues fell for a 20-ball 9, but Mandhana wasn’t to be stopped.
Her quick-fire 80 off 64 balls deflated the South African bowlers, with India riding on her partnership with an unbroken 138-run stand with Punam Raut, who supported well with an 89-ball 62. The partnership is India’s highest for the second wicket against South Africa in women’s ODIs.
Earlier, India’s victory was set up by the bowlers. The duo of Goswami and pace bowler Mansi Joshi combined to put pressure from both ends on the South African top order.
Goswami got the day off to a perfect start for India, trapping Lizelle Lee in front in the very first over. Joshi then had Laura Wolvaardt, and despite Luus putting on a fighting partnership with Goodall, Joshi broke the stand when she had Luus caught behind in the 21st over.
Thereafter, South Africa struggled for a partnership. Goodall sealed up one end and battled to a 77-ball 49 but Mignon du Preez (11), Marizanne Kapp (10) and Trisha Chetty (12) were all dismissed without making much of a dent on the total, with the spinners entering the attack.
The third ODI will be played on Friday. (UNI)
