Harmanpreet Kaur blasts the second-fastest century by an Indian in Women’s ODIs, scoring 102 in the final match against England.
Harmanpreet Kaur Roars Back with Stunning Century Against England
India captain Harmanpreet Kaur silenced her critics with a magnificent century in the third and final ODI at the Riverside Ground in Chester-le-Street. The right-handed batter scored 102 runs off 84 balls, including 14 fours, registering the second-fastest century by an Indian woman in ODIs. She reached her hundred in just 82 balls, second only to Smriti Mandhana’s record-breaking 70-ball century against Ireland earlier this year.
Though slow to start, Harmanpreet soon found her rhythm, unleashing a boundary-strewn assault that no England bowler could contain. Her impressive form came after concerns following a poor dismissal in the previous match at Lord’s, which India lost.
This century marked Harmanpreet Kaur first in a year and her seventh overall in ODIs for India. She was eventually dismissed by Linsey Smith in the 49th over, helping India post a formidable 318/5 in their 50 overs.
Contributions from Jemimah Rodrigues (50) and Smriti Mandhana (45) helped India register the third-highest total against England in women’s ODIs. The team smashed an aggressive 120 runs in the final ten overs to set a challenging target.
Richa Ghosh’s late flourish
Opening partners Smriti Mandhana and Pratika Rawal put together a solid 64-run stand before Charlie Dean broke the partnership by dismissing Pratika for 26. England’s bowling attack saw wickets from Lauren Bell, Lauren Filer, Charlie Dean, Sophie Ecclestone, and Linsey Smith, each claiming one scalp.
With the three-match ODI series tied 1-1, the winner of the third ODI will take the series.