In a thrilling encounter at the R.Premadasa Stadium in Colombo, the India Women’s cricket team set a formidable target of 276 runs in their second match of the 2025 Sri Lanka Women’s Tri-Nation Series against South Africa Women. The match, held on April 29, 2025, saw India Women winning the toss and opting to bat first under clear skies, though rain was forecast for later in the day.
India Women’s innings was anchored by the impressive performance of Pratika Rawal, who scored 78 runs off 90 balls, marking her second consecutive half-century in the series. Rawal’s innings included seven fours and a six, showcasing her aggressive yet composed approach at the crease. She was well-supported by captain Harmanpreet Kaur and Jemimah Rodrigues, who both chipped in with vital contributions of 41 runs each.
The opening partnership between Rawal and Smriti Mandhana was pivotal, as they put together an 83-run stand that set a solid foundation for the innings. Mandhana, despite being dismissed for 36 runs, played a crucial role in establishing momentum. Following her dismissal, Harleen Deol joined Rawal, and the duo added another 68 runs before Deol fell for 29.
Despite the solid start, India Women faced a middle-order wobble as South Africa Women’s bowlers managed to take wickets at regular intervals. Nonkululeko Mlaba was particularly effective, claiming 2 wickets for 55 runs in her 10 overs, while Nadine De Klerk and Ayabonga Khaka also took a wicket each. The Indian innings concluded at 276 for 6 in their allotted 50 overs, with Richa Ghosh providing a late flourish with a quickfire 24 runs off just 14 balls.
As the South Africa Women’s team took to the crease, they began their chase cautiously, reaching 81 runs without loss after 15 overs. Tazmin Brits was the standout performer, scoring a brisk 50 runs off 45 balls, including seven boundaries and two sixes, while Laura Wolvaardt supported her with a steady 21 runs off 32 balls.
While South Africa Women are off to a promising start, the pressure remains high as they need to chase down 196 runs in the remaining 35 overs. The Indian bowlers, led by Deepti Sharma and Sneh Rana, will be looking to make inroads into the South African batting line-up as they aim to secure their second consecutive victory in the series.
The match is still ongoing, and with rain threatening to intervene, the outcome remains uncertain. Fans are eagerly watching to see if South Africa can mount a successful chase or if India will take the win and continue their strong form in the tournament.
In summary, the stage is set for an exciting finish as both teams vie for supremacy in this crucial encounter of the Tri-Nation Series.
