Smriti Mandhana delivered a masterful century to lead India Women to a competitive 292 all out in 49.5 overs against Australia in the second ODI at the Maharaja Yadavindra Singh Cricket Stadium on Wednesday. The left-handed opener’s 117 off 91 balls, laced with elegant boundaries and precise strokeplay, anchored India’s innings after they were sent in to bat. Her ninth ODI hundred provided a robust platform, steering India close to the 300-mark in a pivotal match of the three-game series against the reigning world champions, setting the stage for a thrilling chase under lights.

Mandhana’s aggressive yet composed knock was complemented by vital contributions from the middle order. Deepti Sharma’s gritty 40, alongside quickfire cameos from Richa Ghosh (29), Pratika Rawal (25), and Sneh Rana (24), ensured India maximized their batting potential on a pitch that demanded adaptability. Despite losing wickets at regular intervals, these efforts pushed the total to a challenging one, keeping India in contention to level the series after Australia’s narrow victory in the first ODI at Mohali on September 14.

Australia’s bowling attack, led by pacer Darcie Brown’s impressive 3/42, kept India in check with disciplined spells. Off-spinner Ashleigh Gardner claimed 2/39, while Megan Schutt (1/46), Annabel Sutherland (1/58), and captain Tahlia McGrath (1/20) chipped in to prevent India from posting a higher total. The Australian bowlers exploited early movement and maintained tight lines, but Mandhana’s dominance ensured India set a formidable target, testing the visitors’ batting depth on a surface assisting both pace and spin.

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This match, part of India’s home series against a formidable Australian side, highlights Mandhana’s pivotal role as vice-captain and leading batter. With India’s bowlers, including Deepti Sharma’s off-spin and Renuka Singh’s pace, poised to defend the total, the game promises a tight contest. The series, a key fixture in the ICC Women’s Championship, is crucial for both teams’ qualification prospects for the 2026 World Cup, adding intensity to Australia’s chase.

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