IND-W vs IRE-W 2nd ODI: India banks on youngsters in bid to seal series against Ireland

Following a commanding performance by the youngsters in the opening match, India will eye another clinical display from them to seal the three-match series when it faces Ireland in the second women’s ODI here on Sunday.

Despite fielding a relatively inexperienced side, India Women enjoyed a perfect day in the first ODI, registering a six-wicket win to take a 1-0 series lead.

Captain Smriti Mandhana continued her fine form, laying the foundation with a forceful 41, while the efforts of Pratika Rawal and Tejal Hasabnis, who shared a 100-plus partnership to steer the chase, were crucial.

Their performances are a big boost for the team, especially with regular skipper Harmanpreet Kaur missing from the line-up after she was rested for this series.

Pace spearhead Renuka Singh, the highest wicket-taker in the previous series against West Indies, was also rested for this series.

In her absence, young Titas Sadhu stepped up, striking in her first spell. Sayali Satghare also impressed, taking a wicket, while Saima Thakor bowled a tidy 10-over spell.

Spinner Priya Mishra had a notable outing with two quick wickets, and vice-captain Deepti Sharma also played her part.

Mandhana, who had previously captained India against New Zealand, managed the inexperienced squad in excellent manner, and the management might be pleased with the bench strength ahead of the home ODI World Cup later this year.

However, India’s fielding was sub-par in the first ODI.

The Indians dropped Leah Paul twice, allowing Ireland to recover from a precarious 56 for four to go past the 200-run mark. The Indian bowlers will also look to execute their plans in a better way to keep Ireland under 200 and close out the match with more ease.

For Ireland, captain Gaby Lewis played the lead act with a superb 92, but lacked support from the middle order. Paul, benefitting from her chances, also struck a half-century. Ireland will need more intent from other batters to challenge India.

The biggest disappointment for Ireland was its bowling attack.

Apart from Aimee Maguire, who took three wickets, the rest of the bowlers were expensive and ineffective as India chased down the target with more than 15 overs to spare.

Sitting at the bottom of the Women’s Championship table, Ireland will need a complete lift in its performance level to secure its first-ever women’s ODI win against India.