India's women's cricket team, led by skipper Harmanpreet Kaur, showcased its prowess during the first ODI of the series against West Indies on December 22, 2024, at the Kotambi Stadium in Vadodara. The women in blue secured a comprehensive 211-run win, marking it as one of the most significant performances in women’s ODI history.
The match began with Kaur winning the toss and opting to bat first, which proved to be the right decision. India posted a remarkable total of 314 runs, the second highest total at home, thanks to some stellar performances from their batters. Key contributions came from opener Smriti Mandhana, who scored 91 runs, as well as Harleen Deol, who supported the team with her 44 runs off 50 balls. Pratika Rawal also made her presence felt with 40 runs.
The Indian batting lineup applied consistent pressure on the West Indies bowlers. Mandhana and Rawal set off the innings with a solid 110-run opening stand before Rawal was dismissed by West Indies captain Hayley Matthews. Despite this, the momentum continued with significant partnerships, including one of 66 runs between Harleen Deol and Kaur. The dynamic batting display ensured India maintained control throughout their innings.
West Indies struggled to cope with India's assertive batting. After India's innings concluded, the Caribbean team’s response was dismal, crumbling to 103 runs. Renuka Thakur Singh emerged as the standout performer for India, impressively taking five wickets and earning the title of 'Player of the Match.'
Singh's lethal bowling broke through the West Indies’ batting order swiftly, with only two players managing to reach double figures, emphasizing the visitors' struggles against the disciplined Indian attack. The opening pair of Matthews and Qiana Joseph were dismissed cheaply, and apart from Afy Fletcher’s 24 not out, no other player could significantly contribute.
After this monumental win, the focus quickly shifted to the second ODI, scheduled for December 24. With the upcoming ICC Women’s ODI World Cup 2025 on the horizon, every match offers invaluable experience and preparation for the Indian squad.
Vice-captain Smriti Mandhana expressed the team’s mindset going forward: “Every match is important as we prepare for the ICC World Cup. We are focused on building momentum and enhancing our strategies on the field.” These sentiments resonate with the entire squad as they head back to the practice nets, aiming to replicate their success against West Indies.
Fans from both teams are gearing up for the next match, hoping to see improvements from the West Indies after their heavy defeat. The second ODI presents West Indies with the chance to bounce back and gain momentum against India's rising confidence.
With the stakes high as India seeks to clinch the series, players and fans alike await what promises to be another exhilarating encounter at Vadodara. The match will be broadcasted live on Sports18 and available for streaming on Jio Cinema.
