At the Shere Bangla National Stadium, the Indian women’s cricket team showcased their dominance as they defeated Bangladesh by 108 runs in the second One Day International. With this resounding victory, India has leveled the three-match series at 1-1, setting up an exciting finale on Saturday.
Opting to bat first after winning the toss, India got off to a promising start, Smriti Mandhana’s explosive knock of 36 runs. However, a flurry of wickets pushed them on the backfoot, reducing them to 68/3.
It was then that Jemimah Rodrigues and Captain Harmanpreet Kaur joined forces to stabilize the innings. The duo displayed exemplary resilience, constructing a crucial 73-run partnership. Harmanpreet, after retiring hurt on 48, valiantly returned to complete her half-century, while Rodrigues showcased her brilliance with a splendid knock of 86 off just 78 balls. Their contributions propelled India to a competitive total of 228/8. Chasing a target of 229 runs, the Bangladesh Women’s team faced an early setback as both openers fell within the space of nine deliveries. Lata Mondal’s dismissal further deepened their crisis, leaving them struggling at 38/3. However, Fargana Hoque and Ritu Moni exhibited determination and resilience, stabilizing the innings with a vital 68-run partnership. Unfortunately for the hosts, once this alliance was broken, their batting order crumbled against the spin duo of Devika Vaidya and Jemimah Rodrigues. The Indian bowlers tore through the Bangladesh lineup, leaving them in tatters. From a seemingly comfortable position of 106/3, the home side surrendered meekly, eventually getting bundled out for just 120 runs in 35.1 overs. Jemimah Rodrigues, apart from her superb batting display, also shone with the ball, picking up an astonishing four wickets for just three runs. Her remarkable all-round performance played a pivotal role in India’s comprehensive victory. With this win, India Women’s team bounce back emphatically after a disappointing loss in the previous match. Their clinical batting and exceptional bowling effort dismantled the Bangladesh side and allowed them to level the series. The third and final ODI between India Women and Bangladesh Women is now poised to be a thrilling decider.
Both teams will return on Saturday, eager to claim victory and clinch the series. Fans can expect an enthralling contest between two competitive sides, as they look to end the tour on a high note.
Brief scores: India 228/8 in 50 overs (Jemimah Rodrigues 86, Harmanpreet Kaur 52; Nahida Akter 2-37, Sultana Khatun 2-41) beat Bangladesh 120 all out in 35.1 overs (Fargana Hoque 47; Jemimah Rodrigues 4-3, Devika Vaidya 3-30) by 108 runs.
