Deepti Sharma’s all-round brilliance and Radha Yadav’s impressive bowling performance led India to a comprehensive 59-run victory over New Zealand in the first ODI of the three-match series. Despite a valiant effort from the Kerr sisters, who combined for seven Indian wickets, the visitors were unable to overcome India’s strong batting display and disciplined bowling.
Batting first, India got off to a shaky start, losing Smriti Mandhana early. However, Shafali Verma and Yastika Bhatia provided a much-needed boost, attacking the New Zealand bowlers with intent. The Indian innings gained momentum through Jemimah Rodrigues and debutant Tejal Hasabnis, who formed a solid partnership. Deepti Sharma’s late cameo pushed India’s total to 227.
New Zealand’s chase was derailed early, with Suzie Bates falling cheaply. Despite a promising start from Georgia Plimmer, India’s bowling attack, led by Deepti Sharma and Radha Yadav, kept the visitors under pressure. The Kiwi batting lineup struggled to build partnerships, and consistent run-outs proved to be their undoing.
Amelia Kerr’s late resistance offered some hope, but it was not enough to prevent India from securing a comfortable victory. The win gives India a strong start to the series, and they will be looking to build on this momentum in the upcoming matches.
