Introduction: In a display of sheer dominance, the Indian Women’s cricket team clinched the Tri-Nation ODI Series title with a staggering 97-run victory over Sri Lanka in the final on Sunday. Led by the elegant strokeplay of vice-captain Smriti Mandhana and the incisive bowling of Sneh Rana, India outclassed their opponents in all departments to lift the coveted trophy at the picturesque Pallekele International Cricket Stadium.
The Foundation – Mandhana’s Masterclass: Opting to bat first on a batsman-friendly surface, India posted a formidable 342/7 in their 50 overs, largely thanks to Mandhana’s breathtaking 116 off just 101 balls. This was her 11th ODI century, a testament to her consistency at the top of the order. Despite battling cramps in humid conditions, the southpaw unleashed a flurry of boundaries – 15 fours and 2 sixes – with a standout moment being her four consecutive fours off Sri Lankan skipper Chamari Athapaththu’s bowling. Dropped on 21 by a fielder at mid-wicket, Mandhana made Sri Lanka rue the error with key partnerships, including a 70-run stand with opener Pratika Rawal (30) and a commanding 120-run alliance with Harleen Deol (47) for the second wicket.
Late Flourish by Middle Order: As Mandhana set the tone, India’s middle order ensured a grand finish. Jemimah Rodrigues smashed a quickfire 44 off 29 balls, while captain Harmanpreet Kaur blazed her way to 41 off 30, helping the team amass a whopping 90 runs in the final 10 overs. Deepti Sharma (20* off 14) and Amanjot Kaur (18 off 12) provided the final thrust, ensuring India crossed the 340-mark. Sri Lanka’s bowlers, including Sugandika Kumari (2/59), Dewmi Vihanga (2/69), and Malki Madara (2/74), picked up wickets but failed to stem the flow of runs on a day when India’s batting was simply unstoppable.
Bowling Dominance – Rana and Kaur Shine: Chasing a mammoth 343, Sri Lanka’s innings crumbled early as Amanjot Kaur struck in the very first over, dismissing opener Hasini Perera. A brief resistance came from Chamari Athapaththu (51) and Vishmi Gunaratne (36), but India’s disciplined bowling unit, spearheaded by off-spinner Sneh Rana (4/38), turned the screws. Rana, who had earlier dropped Athapaththu, redeemed herself by removing the Sri Lankan captain just after her half-century. Deepti Sharma’s tight bowling built pressure, while Amanjot (3/54) snared key wickets, including Gunaratne, bowled around her legs. Nilakshika Silva’s gritty 48 offered a glimmer of hope, but Rana’s dismissal of the batter sealed Sri Lanka’s fate at 245 in 44.3 overs.
Conclusion: This victory marks another feather in the cap for the Indian Women’s team, showcasing their growing prowess in the international arena. With Smriti Mandhana’s artistry at the crease and Sneh Rana’s match-defining spells, India not only clinched the Tri-Nation title but also sent a strong message ahead of upcoming global tournaments like the Women’s World Cup. As fans celebrate this triumph, the team’s all-round brilliance promises more glory in the future.