After Australia started strong in the series opener, India bounced back with a win in the second ODI. Smriti Mandhana played a huge role, smashing 117 off 91 as India posted 292. Then they bowled out Australia for 190.
Australia’s Meg Lanning had plenty to say about Mandhana’s innings and how consistent she’s been. She acknowledged the impact the 29-year-old has, especially with the World Cup being hosted in India.
This century came after Mandhana was named the top batter in the ICC Women’s ODI Batter Rankings. The 102-run win was special because it was India’s first home ODI win against Australia since 2007. And it was Australia’s biggest defeat by runs in ODI history, according to the ICC website.
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Lanning said in The ICC assessment that Mandhana has a few good years ahead. She also said Mandhana has been a world-class player for a while and can score big and win matches, so she’s a threat to opposing teams.
Lanning also said Mandhana is dangerous and does well under pressure. She thinks Mandhana is in a good position for the World Cup.
Lanning also mentioned how much they prepared to nullify Mandhana’s impact.
Mandhana’s numbers in three World Cup games against Australia aren’t the highest but she has an amazing overall record against them. In 18 games, she’s scored 791 runs, including three centuries.
Lanning said Mandhana was a major focus in their planning meetings. Lanning said Mandhana has grown over the years. She thinks using off-spin bowlers like Ash Gardner has been a good strategy against her in the past. Because of this, many other teams around the world will probably do the same, said Lanning.
Lanning added the pitch conditions also has a role. She also said the wickets are good over there but if there’s more turn and spin, then spinners will bowl first. She ended by saying Mandhana is a tough player to bowl to and she requires a lot of planning. So she’s interested to see if other teams will try something different.
India play Australia in Visakhapatnam on October 12, one of the most anticipated matches of the tournament.
