The final match of the Tri-Nation Series between the Indian Women's Cricket Team and hosts Sri Lanka is underway at the R. Premadasa Stadium in Colombo. Indian captain Harmanpreet Kaur won the toss and opted to bat first.
Sports News: Indian women's cricket star opener Smriti Mandhana once again proved why she is considered one of the most reliable batters of this era. In the final match of the Tri-Nation Series played at Colombo's R. Premadasa Stadium, Mandhana laid the foundation for India's victory with a magnificent century against Sri Lanka.
Winning the toss and electing to bat first, Team India needed a b start, which Smriti Mandhana and young opener Pratibha Rawal provided expertly. The duo put on a 70-run partnership for the first wicket, with Pratibha contributing 30 runs. After Pratibha's dismissal, Smriti continued to solidify the innings with Harleen Deol.
A Stunning Century
Smriti Mandhana displayed positive intent from the outset. She reached her half-century in 55 balls and then, gradually shifting gears, completed her 11th ODI century in 92 balls. This century was one of the most composed innings of Mandhana's career. She struck 15 fours and 2 sixes in her innings, scoring 116 runs before being dismissed.
This century was not just a personal achievement; it also marked a significant milestone in the history of women's ODI cricket. With this innings, Mandhana became the third-highest century-scorer in ODIs. She surpassed England's Tammy Beaumont, who has 10 centuries to her name.
Most Centuries in Women's ODI Cricket
- Meg Lanning (Australia) – 15 centuries
- Suzie Bates (New Zealand) – 13 centuries
- Smriti Mandhana (India) – 11 centuries
- Tammy Beaumont (England) – 10 centuries
Team India made one change to their playing XI for this final match. 21-year-old medium-pacer Kranti Gauḍ was given her debut, replacing veteran spinner Suchi Upadhyay. She impressed on her debut with tight bowling.
