IND W vs NZ W, AI Simulation | Smriti Mandhana and Renuka Singh star as India on verge of semifinal of ODI World Cup

‌Pitch and Weather

The Dr. DY Patil Sports Academy in Navi Mumbai is known for its flat, consistent pitch, offering good bounce early on, which favors the batters. The outfield is fast, enabling quick run-scoring. As the match progresses, the pitch tends to slow down, which may bring spinners into play during the second innings. The weather forecast for October 23 predicts hot and humid conditions, with temperatures reaching up to 36°C. There is also a moderate chance of rain, which could affect fielding conditions and make the game more challenging for the players.

Toss

India won the toss and opted to bowl first, taking advantage of the early assistance the pitch may offer to the pacers. Given the conditions, the captain would want to restrict New Zealand to a manageable total before chasing the target later in the match.

Lineups

• India Women (Probable): Harmanpreet Kaur (c), Smriti Mandhana, Pratika Rawal, Harleen Deol, Jemimah Rodrigues, Deepti Sharma, Richa Ghosh (wk), Renuka Singh, Amanjot Kaur, Arundhati Reddy, Shree Charani
• New Zealand Women (Probable): Sophie Devine (c), Suzie Bates, Georgia Plimmer, Amelia Kerr, Brooke Halliday, Maddy Green, Isabella Gaze (wk), Jess Kerr, Rosemary Mair, Lea Tahuhu, Eden Carson

Match Report

India entered this game with a point to prove after their recent loss to England. Opting to bowl first after winning the toss, they kept New Zealand's scoring in check throughout the innings. New Zealand started solidly, with Suzie Bates leading the way with a steady 60 runs. However, India’s bowlers were clinical, with Renuka Singh claiming three wickets, including the crucial ones of Sophie Devine and Bates. As the middle overs progressed, New Zealand struggled to maintain momentum, and the scoring rate slowed down. Despite a late surge from Amelia Kerr (38 runs), New Zealand finished their innings at a below-par 240/7.

In response, India got off to a strong start, with Smriti Mandhana and Pratika Rawal forming a solid 100-run opening partnership. Mandhana’s composed 80 runs anchored the chase as the middle order, led by Harmanpreet Kaur and Deepti Sharma, ensured the required rate remained under control. India comfortably chased down the target, reaching 245/4 with 9 balls to spare. The victory was set up by the solid opening stand and followed through by disciplined middle-order batting.

Player of the Match

Smriti Mandhana was named the best player of the match for her brilliant 80 runs off 95 balls, which led India to a confident victory.