Rajkot, January 10 – Team India women started the new year with an emphatic six-wicket victory over Ireland in the first ODI at the Saurashtra Cricket Association Stadium. Pratika Rawal’s stellar knock of 89 runs and Tejal Hasnbis’ composed unbeaten 53 helped India chase down a competitive target of 239 with 93 balls to spare.
Ireland won the toss and opted to bat first. Their innings was anchored by captain Gabby Lewis, who played a brilliant knock of 92 runs off 129 balls, hitting 15 fours. Lee Paul provided solid support, scoring 59 off 73 balls, including seven boundaries. Despite their efforts, Indian bowlers kept the rest of the Irish lineup in check. Priya Mishra was the pick of the bowlers for India, claiming two wickets, while Titas Sadhu, Saili Satghare, and Deepti Sharma took one wicket each as Ireland finished at 238/7 in 50 overs.
In reply, India got off to a flying start with captain Smriti Mandhana and Pratika Rawal opening the innings. Mandhana scored a brisk 41 off just 29 balls, smashing six fours and one six before being dismissed. Her innings saw her achieve a monumental milestone, becoming the fastest Indian to reach 4,000 runs in women’s ODIs, achieving the feat in just 95 innings. Mandhana now joins the legendary Mithali Raj in this elite club and is the third-fastest globally to reach the milestone.
Pratika Rawal played a match-winning knock, dominating the Irish bowling attack with precision and power. Her 89 runs came off 96 balls, studded with 10 fours and one six. Tejal Hasnbis’ calm and collected performance of 53 not out off 46 balls, featuring nine fours, ensured there were no hiccups in India’s chase. Richa Ghosh contributed with eight runs, hitting two boundaries, and stayed unbeaten alongside Hasnbis as India reached 241/4 in 34.3 overs.
Amy McGuire led Ireland’s bowling effort with three wickets, while Freya Sargent took one. However, their efforts were not enough to prevent India from cruising to victory.
Pratika Rawal’s all-round display earned her the Player of the Match award. With this victory, India leads the three-match series 1-0. The second ODI will be played on Sunday, January 12.
Match Summary:
IREW: 238/7 (50 overs) – Gabby Lewis 92 (129), Lee Paul 59 (73); Priya Mishra 2/40
INDW: 241/4 (34.3 overs) – Pratika Rawal 89 (96), Tejal Hasnbis 53* (46); Amy McGuire 3/47
Player of the Match: Pratika Rawal
Upcoming Match: 2nd ODI – India Women vs Ireland Women, January 12, 2025
