Daijiworld Media Network - Colombo
Colombo, May 12: Smriti Mandhana rose to the occasion in spectacular fashion, hammering a brilliant century in the final of the Women’s ODI Tri-Series to guide India Women to a dominant 97-run victory over Sri Lanka on Sunday.
Coming into the title clash with just one half-century in the tournament, Mandhana saved her best for the big stage, smashing 116 off just 101 deliveries. Her knock laid the foundation for India’s imposing total of 342/7 — the highest-ever ODI score by any women’s team in Sri Lanka, and the second-highest in a knockout game in women’s ODI history.
Mandhana’s century — her 11th in ODIs — now places her third on the all-time list of most hundreds in women’s international cricket.
India’s batting unit fired in unison, with Harleen Deol (47), Jemimah Rodrigues (44), and captain Harmanpreet Kaur (41) playing key supporting roles. Their contributions ensured that India maintained a steep run rate throughout the innings.
In reply, Sri Lanka Women faced an uphill task and stumbled early, losing opener Hasini Perera in the very first over. Despite fighting knocks from captain Chamari Athapaththu (51), Vishmi Gunaratne (36), and Nilakshika Silva (48), the hosts never quite got close to the daunting target. They were eventually bowled out for 245 in 48.2 overs.
India’s bowlers were clinical, with seamer Amanjot Kaur taking 3/54 and off-spinner Sneh Rana starring with 4/38. Rana’s efforts throughout the series earned her the Player of the Series award, having taken a total of 15 wickets.
Speaking after the match, India captain Harmanpreet Kaur praised the team’s collective performance. “Proud of the entire team, they really played good cricket. Really happy with the way we batted. The improvement never stops though — especially in fielding, bowling, and building solid partnerships.”
Brief Scores:
India Women 342/7 in 50 overs (Smriti Mandhana 116, Harleen Deol 47, Jemimah Rodrigues 44, Harmanpreet Kaur 41)
Sri Lanka Women 245 in 48.2 overs (Chamari Athapaththu 51; Sneh Rana 4/38, Amanjot Kaur 3/54)
Result: India Women won by 97 runs.