The Indian women's cricket team showcased a masterclass in all departments to achieve a monumental victory against the West Indies in the 1st ODI held at the Kotambi Stadium in Vadodara on December 22. The hosts dominated the match from the outset, securing an emphatic 211-run win, which now stands as their largest ODI victory by a run margin on home soil and their second-largest triumph overall in the format’s history. The match highlighted the team's exceptional depth, skill, and strategy as they overpowered the visitors with ease.
Batting first, India delivered a commanding performance to post an imposing total of 314/9 in their allotted 50 overs. Star batter Smriti Mandhana led from the front, displaying her trademark elegance and resilience during her knock of 91 runs. Opening alongside debutant Pratika Rawat, Mandhana stitched a vital partnership that set the foundation for India’s innings. Rawat, on her debut, impressed with a composed 40 runs off 69 deliveries, showing glimpses of her potential. Harleen Deol further strengthened the innings with a steady contribution of 44 runs, while the experienced duo of Harmanpreet Kaur and Richa Ghosh provided the late impetus. Kaur smashed 34 runs in quick time, while Ghosh’s aggressive 26 ensured India crossed the 300-run mark, putting the West Indies under immense pressure.
The West Indies, already facing a daunting target, were plagued by poor fielding and indiscipline in their bowling attack. They conceded 25 extras, including a staggering 17 wides, which allowed India to capitalize on every opportunity. Zaida James was the lone bright spot for the visitors, returning figures of 4/55 from her eight overs. Despite her efforts, the West Indies bowlers struggled to stem the flow of runs as India’s batters dictated terms throughout the innings.
Chasing 315, the West Indies faced a relentless Indian bowling unit that dismantled their batting lineup with clinical precision. Renuka Singh Thakur was the star with the ball, producing a sensational five-wicket haul that left the visitors in disarray. Her spell was a masterclass in swing and seam bowling, exploiting the conditions to perfection. The West Indies batters had no answer to her skill and accuracy, collapsing to their lowest-ever ODI total. None of the visiting batters managed to put up any significant resistance, and the team succumbed to their heaviest defeat in the history of the 50-over format.
The result was a stark contrast between the two teams, with India excelling in every aspect of the game—batting, bowling, and fielding—while the West Indies faltered under pressure. The victory not only highlights India’s growing dominance in women's cricket but also sets the tone for the remainder of the series. With this performance, India has sent a strong message to the cricketing world, showcasing their readiness to compete at the highest level.
The win is particularly special as it demonstrates the team's unity and depth. Contributions came from multiple players, underscoring the strength of their lineup. Smriti Mandhana’s consistency, Pratika Rawat’s promising debut, Harleen Deol’s stability, and Renuka Singh Thakur’s brilliance with the ball all combined to create a memorable day for Indian cricket. This commanding win will undoubtedly boost the team's confidence as they aim to build momentum in the series and solidify their position as one of the leading teams in women's international cricket.
