Daijiworld Media Network - Colombo
Colombo, May 7: Jemimah Rodrigues' brilliant 123 and Amanjot Kaur's 3-wicket haul guided India to a thrilling 23-run win over South Africa in the women’s ODI tri-series at the R Premadasa International Cricket Stadium on Wednesday. India’s victory secured their spot in Sunday’s final against Sri Lanka.
After being put in to bat, India found themselves struggling at 50/3 within seven overs. However, Rodrigues, batting at number five, anchored the innings with a dazzling century, her second in ODIs. She hit 15 fours and a six off 101 balls. Rodrigues’ stand of 122 runs with Deepti Sharma, who scored a vital 93, lifted India to a formidable 337/9 in 50 overs. Mandhana contributed with a 51, while South Africa’s sloppy fielding further aided India’s total.
In response, South Africa, without their regular skipper Laura Wolvaardt, were soon reduced to 89/3. However, Annerie Dercksen fought back with a determined 81, while stand-in captain Chloe Tryon added a rapid 67. The equation came down to 39 runs off 12 balls, but bad light delayed play, and when it resumed, Deepti Sharma bowled a superb final over, dismissing Tryon and ensuring India's victory.
Amanjot Kaur, returning to ODI action after 15 months, claimed 3 wickets for 59 runs, playing a key role alongside Rodrigues in securing India’s entry into the final.
Brief Scores:
India: 337/9 in 50 overs (Jemimah Rodrigues 123, Deepti Sharma 93; Masabata Klaas 2-51, Nadine de Klerk 2-54)
South Africa: 314/7 in 50 overs (Annerie Dercksen 81, Chloe Tryon 67; Amanjot Kaur 3-59, Deepti Sharma 2-57)
India won by 23 runs.