India fight back to level series 1-1 as Smriti’s ton powers historic win over Australia

India bounced back in emphatic fashion to level the three-match ODI series 1-1 with a commanding 102-run victory over Australia at the Maharaja Yadavindra Singh International Cricket Stadium on Wednesday.

Vice-captain Smriti Mandhana led the charge with a blistering 117 off 91 balls – her first century against Australia in a winning cause – as India posted 290 before bundling out the visitors to register their first home ODI triumph over the world champions since 2007. It was also Australia’s heaviest defeat in the format, setting up a tantalising series decider in New Delhi on Saturday.

Smriti’s hundred, her third against Australia, came off just 77 balls, making it the second-fastest by an Indian woman in ODIs. “The last two hundreds I got against Australia were in losing causes, so I’m relieved this one came in a win. The plan was simple: use the Powerplay, build an innings, and if it’s in my slot, go after it,” said Smriti, adjudged Player of the Match.

Captain Harmanpreet Kaur credited the team’s discipline and collective effort. “We stuck to our plans, kept things simple and clear. Even though we missed a few chances, our bowlers kept creating opportunities. It’s good to see everyone taking responsibility,” she said.

Australia skipper Alyssa Healy admitted her team was second-best on the day. “India were pretty good in all facets of the game, and we got a little outplayed. Still, good learnings for us heading into the World Cup,” she remarked.

Seam-bowling all-rounder Arundhati Reddy, who grabbed a wicket and three catches, praised the side’s response after the series-opening defeat. “We did a lot of planning and really wanted to step up. The batters set the tone, and the bowling unit backed it up. We wanted to bring energy into the field, and it feels great to contribute.”

With the series locked at 1-1, all eyes now turn to the high-stakes decider in New Delhi, where India will aim to build on the momentum of this landmark win.

(This story was taken from syndicated feed and was only edited for style by Gujarat Samachar Digital team)