In a time of momentous achievements for New Zealand sports, the White Ferns’ emphatic 76-run victory over India in the second ODI in Ahmedabad may seem understated. However, this win does more than just level the three-match series; it propels New Zealand’s path toward direct qualification for next year’s ODI World Cup, a major milestone in the Women’s Championship. New Zealand’s triumph was underscored by commanding performances from experienced players, with captain Sophie Devine stealing the show. Her all-around contribution—79 runs off 86 balls followed by three crucial wickets—cemented her role as a linchpin for her team.
Batting first on a pitch perfect for stroke-making, openers Suzie Bates and Georgia Plimmer put on a solid foundation, amassing an 87-run partnership in just over 15 overs. Bates and Plimmer skillfully struck 13 fours and a six, using timing over power to exploit the batting-friendly surface. Despite early efforts by Indian skipper Harmanpreet Kaur, who introduced spin by the sixth over, India’s fielding lapses, particularly from Deepti Sharma, allowed New Zealand’s top order to build steadily. Plimmer capitalized on these lapses, bringing the fireworks with a six and a four off debutant Priya Mishra.
India’s breakthrough came from Radha Yadav, who exhibited incredible fielding with a diving catch to remove Plimmer for 41. This moment sparked a slight dip in New Zealand’s scoring rate, as India’s off-pace bowlers made runs harder to come by. However, Devine’s arrival at the crease reinvigorated the innings. She forged a brisk 60-run partnership with Maddy Green, accelerating New Zealand’s total to a competitive 259/9, with Devine batting through the final stages. Radha Yadav’s standout efforts in the field complemented her bowling, where she finished with figures of 4 for 69.
India’s chase began on a challenging note, with veteran seamer Lea Tahuhu dismissing star batter Smriti Mandhana in the very first over. Tahuhu struck again in the fourth over, trapping Shafali Verma, while Yastika Bhatia also fell victim shortly thereafter, leaving India struggling at 26 for 3. As the Indian innings unraveled, Harmanpreet Kaur and Jemimah Rodrigues attempted to revive the chase with a 38-run stand, but Devine’s bowling prowess surfaced once more. She struck twice in quick succession, claiming both Rodrigues and the Indian captain.
With India reeling at 102 for 7 by the 26th over, a steep defeat seemed inevitable. But Radha Yadav showed resilience with the bat as well, stitching a spirited 70-run partnership with Saima Thakor for the ninth wicket. Although her 45-run effort ultimately couldn’t alter the outcome, it served to reduce the margin and added to her already impressive day on the field.
New Zealand’s performance in Ahmedabad not only leveled the series but demonstrated the depth and determination within their ranks, particularly through Devine’s leadership and all-round prowess. The White Ferns’ momentum is now undeniable, and with valuable Women’s Championship points secured, their journey to the World Cup appears increasingly promising.
