Smriti Mandhana's Century Powers India to Thumping ODI Win over South Africa

Smriti Mandhana's magnificent century (117 off 127 balls, 12 fours, 1 six) propelled India to a resounding 143-run victory over South Africa in the first of three One-Day Internationals at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru on Sunday.

Opting to bat first, India recovered from a shaky start to post a competitive total of 265. The hosts were reeling at 99 for five before Mandhana's heroics rescued them. The left-handed opener played a patient and composed innings, anchoring India's recovery and setting the platform for a big score.

Mandhana received valuable support from Jemimah Rodrigues (17), Deepti Sharma (37), and Pooja Vastrakar (31 not out). The Indian batters took advantage of some sloppy fielding from South Africa, with Nonkululeko Mlaba's dropped catch of Vastrakar proving particularly costly.

In reply, South Africa never looked like chasing down the target. Debutant leg-spinner Asha Sobhana wreaked havoc with her accurate bowling, claiming four wickets for just 21 runs in 8.4 overs. Skipper Laura Wolvaardt was dismissed in the very first over, while Anneke Bosch, Tazmin Brits, and Marizanne Kapp all fell cheaply.

Annerie Dercksen and Sune Luus offered some resistance, but their efforts were in vain as South Africa were bundled out for a mere 122. Sobhana's impressive performance earned her the Player of the Match award.

The victory gives India a 1-0 lead in the three-match series. The second ODI will be played in Lucknow on June 19, followed by the third and final match in Visakhapatnam on June 22.

Tags: #cricket, #India, #SouthAfrica, #One-daycricket, #sport