Harmanpreet hits a splendid century as India wins the ODI series

By Kersi Meher-Homji 

Indian women have won the One Day International (ODI) series 2-0 by defeating England last night at Canterbury.

They totaled 5 for 333 in 50 overs thanks to an aggressive and unbeaten 143 off only 111 balls by skipper Harmanpreet Kaur. She delighted the crowd by hitting 18 fours and 4 sixes. She added 113 runs for the fourth wicket with Harlene Deol (58 runs with 5 fours and 2 sixes). Earlier the consistent opener Smriti Mandhana had stroked 40 elegant runs.

In reply England was bowled out for 245 runs, fast medium bowler Renuka Singh Thakur capturing 4 for 57, India won by 88 runs to win the three match ODI series 2-0. The Person of the match was Harmanpreet Kaur. According to Cricinfo, “Her 143 not out is the highest individual score in an ODI against England in England.” 

A beaming Kaur said at the presentation: “Today was a very important game for us. Everyone who got a chance contributed. I always enjoy leading, I’m always in the game and appreciate all the support I get from the staff and the players. I took my time and that partnership [with Harlene Deol] was important. After that I gave freedom to myself and backed myself.”

Kaur also paid tribute to India’s quick bowler Jhulan Goswami who retired last night after taking 253 wickets in 203 ODIs.

Earlier India had won the first ODI match by seven wickets, Mandhana scoring 91 runs.

India is only the second country to win an ODI series in England in the last 15 years after Australia, who won in 2015 and 2019. England have been victorious in 17 of the 20 bilateral ODI series they have played at home in this period.

Well done, Indian girls.

The third and final match of the series will be played at Lord’s on Saturday.

Short URL: https://indiandownunder.com.au/?p=18432