Indian Women’s captain, Harmanpreet Kaur, commended Renuka Singh Thakur‘s exceptional bowling performance after India’s victory against West Indies in the first ODI. Thakur secured a five-wicket haul, a feat Kaur described as “special.”
Smriti Mandhana’s powerful batting and Renuka Singh Thakur’s five-wicket haul propelled India Women to a resounding 211-run win over West Indies Women. The match took place on Sunday at Kotambi Stadium in Vadodara.
This dominant victory gave India an initial lead in the ODI series.
Harmanpreet Kaur, during the post-match presentation, praised Smriti Mandhana’s impressive batting display. She also acknowledged the team’s improved fielding efforts.
“The way Smriti is batting is outstanding to watch. It looks really easy, but trust me, it is not. Renuka has been bowling well for years, but today was special for her (taking five wickets). Fielding is something we’ve been focusing on, and it’s great to see the improvement in this series and tonight – really happy with the approach. Playing in India is something we always enjoy. The facilities are amazing, with beautiful grounds and pitches. Really happy with the BCCI and their arrangements,”
West Indies won the toss and opted to field first. India’s opening partnership between Smriti Mandhana and Pratika Rawal set a strong foundation for their innings.
Mandhana scored 91 runs off 102 balls, including 13 fours. Rawal contributed 40 runs off 69 balls, hitting four fours. Their partnership yielded 110 runs.
India’s middle order further strengthened the innings. Richa Ghosh added a quick 26 runs off 13 balls, comprising four fours and a six.
Jemimah Rodrigues contributed 31 runs from 19 balls, including three fours and a six. Deepti Sharma remained unbeaten, scoring 14 runs off 12 balls with one four.
India concluded their innings with a substantial total of 314/9 in their allotted 50 overs.
West Indies faced difficulties against India’s disciplined bowling attack during their chase. Renuka Singh Thakur’s impactful spell significantly disrupted the West Indies batting lineup.
Thakur secured five wickets, while Priya Mishra took two. Titas Sadhu and Deepti Sharma each claimed one wicket.
West Indies were bowled out for 103 runs in just 27 overs. This resulted in a comprehensive 211-run victory for India.
Renuka Singh Thakur was deservedly named ‘Player of the Match‘ for her remarkable contribution to India’s triumph.
