India Women Defeat Zimbabwe by Nine Wickets
Vadodara, October 24, 2026: India Women began their three-match One-Day International series against Zimbabwe with a commanding nine-wicket victory in the opening match at the BCA Stadium, Vadodara, on Friday. Pratika Rawal starred with an unbeaten century as India chased down the target of 198 runs in just 27.1 overs, taking a 1–0 lead in the series.
After winning the toss, Zimbabwe Women elected to bat first but struggled to build substantial partnerships against India’s disciplined bowling attack. The visitors were eventually bowled out for 197 in 49.5 overs. Beloved Biza was Zimbabwe’s leading scorer, making a fighting 62 off 92 deliveries, while Michelle Mavunga contributed 29 runs from 23 balls.
India’s bowlers maintained pressure throughout the innings. Left-arm spinner Shree Charani delivered an outstanding performance, claiming four wickets for just 23 runs in her 10 overs. Pacer Kranti Gaud supported her with three wickets for 42 runs, while Deepti Sharma picked up two wickets. Shafali Verma also contributed with the ball as Zimbabwe failed to capitalise on their early opportunities.
Chasing 198, India made an aggressive start. Openers Smriti Mandhana and Pratika Rawal put together a 94-run partnership before Mandhana was dismissed for 33. Rawal continued confidently, combining solid defence with fluent stroke play to keep the required run rate comfortably under control.
Shafali Verma joined Rawal and transformed the chase with an explosive innings. She scored 64 runs off just 33 balls, hitting boundaries and sixes to put Zimbabwe’s bowlers under immense pressure. Rawal, meanwhile, remained composed and reached her century from 96 deliveries, finishing unbeaten on 100 with 15 boundaries.
India reached 200/1 in 27.1 overs, completing the chase with nine wickets in hand and 22.5 overs to spare. Rawal was named Player of the Match for her match-winning century.
The victory marked an impressive return to ODI cricket for India, who had not played in the format for nearly eight months. It also provided a positive start to Smriti Mandhana’s tenure as full-time ODI captain.
Zimbabwe will aim to improve their batting and bowling in the second ODI, scheduled for October 25 in Vadodara. India, meanwhile, will look to maintain their momentum and strengthen their position in the series.
Match Summary
- Zimbabwe Women: 197 all out (49.5 overs)
- India Women: 200/1 (27.1 overs)
- Result: India Women won by nine wickets
- Player of the Match: Pratika Rawal (100 not out)
- Series: India lead 1–0
