India's women’s cricket team secured a commanding five-wicket win over the West Indies in the third and final ODI, completing a 3-0 series sweep on Friday in Vadodara.
In a low-scoring match, India chased down a target of 163 in 28.2 overs despite early setbacks. Key contributions came from skipper Harmanpreet Kaur (32), Jemimah Rodrigues (29), Deepti Sharma (39 not out), and Richa Ghosh (23 not out).
The star of the game was Deepti Sharma, who delivered a record-breaking performance with the ball, taking six wickets for 31 runs. This made her the first Indian woman to achieve multiple five-wicket hauls in 50-over cricket. She was well-supported by Renuka Singh, who claimed 4/29, as India bowled out the West Indies for 162 in 38.5 overs.
West Indies' struggles
West Indies had a disastrous start after opting to bat, losing both openers for ducks in the very first over bowled by Thakur. Deepti then dominated the middle overs with her clever variations, leaving the visitors struggling.
A 97-run stand between Chinelle Henry (61) and Shemaine Campbelle (46) provided some resistance and helped West Indies cross the 160 mark. Apart from Henry and Campbelle, only Aaliyah Alleyne (21) managed to reach double figures.
India’s reply started shakily as in-form opener Smriti Mandhana fell early for 4, caught one-handed by Ashmini Munisar off Aaliyah Alleyne. Harleen Deol also departed quickly, edging a wide delivery to the keeper.
Despite the setbacks, Harmanpreet Kaur and Jemimah Rodrigues steadied the innings with vital contributions. Deepti Sharma and Richa Ghosh then guided India home with an unbeaten 54-run partnership.
Key Performances
- Deepti Sharma: 6/31 with the ball and 39* with the bat
- Renuka Singh: 4/29
- Harmanpreet Kaur: 32 runs, including seven boundaries
- Richa Ghosh: 23* to finish the chase
With this win, India not only whitewashed the ODI series but also bounced back strongly after their 2-1 T20I series victory against the same opponents.
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