Bengaluru: In a stellar display of batting prowess, Smriti Mandhana guided India to a commanding six-wicket victory in the third and final women’s ODI against South Africa, clinching a 3-0 series whitewash at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium on Sunday.
India chased down South Africa’s total of 215 for eight in 40.4 overs, finishing at 220 for four, thanks to Mandhana’s graceful and stylish 90 runs off 83 balls. Her innings, featuring 11 boundaries, was pivotal in India’s successful run chase.
South Africa, opting to bat first, posted a modest total despite captain Laura Wolvaardt’s valiant 61 off 57 balls, which included seven fours. The Indian bowlers, led by Deepti Sharma’s exceptional figures of 2 for 27, kept South Africa’s batting lineup in check on a spinner-friendly pitch.
India’s run chase began with the early loss of opener Shafali Verma, who scored 25. However, Mandhana’s partnership with Priya Punia (28) and later with Harmanpreet Kaur (42 off 48 balls, including two fours) solidified India’s position. Their steady collaboration ensured India’s victory with 9.2 overs to spare.
Mandhana, who narrowly missed her third consecutive century in the series, showcased her skill and determination throughout her innings. Her efforts, combined with significant contributions from her teammates, highlighted India’s batting depth and capability to chase challenging targets.
Despite Wolvaardt’s captaincy knock and the lower order’s resistance, South Africa struggled against India’s disciplined bowling and strategic field placements. The visitors’ total of 215 for eight proved insufficient in the face of India’s methodical and confident batting approach.