Harmanpreet Kaur played a crucial role in India’s series-clinching victory against England in the third and final ODI at Chester-le-Street. After a slow start, she scored her first run on the 11th ball and went on to make 102 runs off just 82 balls. This remarkable performance not only secured the win for India but also set the stage for the upcoming Women’s ODI World Cup.
This century marked Harmanpreet Kaur’s seventh in ODIs, but it was her first century in 13 innings. Her previous best during the England tour was a modest 26 in the fourth T20I. Reflecting on her performance, Harmanpreet said, “The plan was to spend some time on the wicket and then see how things go. That really worked for me.” Despite a tough start, where she struggled to get runs in the first 10 balls, her determination to stay focused paid off.
Harmanpreet’s century, made in 82 balls, surpassed her previous fastest century by five balls, making it the second-fastest for India in women’s ODIs. She also became the third Indian player to surpass 4000 runs in women’s ODIs. Her partnership with Jemimah Rodrigues, who scored 50, contributed to a vital 110-run stand for the fourth wicket. Additionally, Mandhana and Deol contributed with 45 runs each, while Richa Ghosh added a quick-fire 38 runs off 18 balls.
India’s total of 318/5 was the second-highest ODI score by a visiting team in England. This all-round performance was supported by the brilliant bowling of 21-year-old Kranti Goud, who took 6 wickets for 52 runs. Goud’s efforts helped bowl out England for 305, falling short by 13 runs in their chase for a world-record total.
Harmanpreet Kaur praised Goud’s performance, saying, “She was there for the team whenever we needed a breakthrough.” India’s victory in this ODI series, coupled with their 3-2 T20I series win, boosted their confidence ahead of the World Cup.
Looking ahead, Harmanpreet emphasized the importance of staying focused for the upcoming matches against reigning champions Australia. She believes that the confidence gained from the tour of England will help the team perform better in their home conditions.
“Our team has been really working hard for so many years, and this is the time where we are getting that reward,” Harmanpreet said, expressing her pride in the team’s hard work and positive mindset. The Indian women’s cricket team is on the rise, and Harmanpreet Kaur’s leadership and performance continue to inspire confidence as they prepare for the World Cup.
As India gears up for tougher challenges, Harmanpreet Kaur remains a pivotal figure in shaping the future of women’s cricket in India, and her consistent performances will be key to India’s success in the upcoming tournaments.
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