Harmanpreet Kaur's century lifts India to 318/5 vs England

Indian captain Harmanpreet Kaur delivered a masterclass, smashing a blazing 102 off just 84 balls to propel India to a formidable 318/5 in the series-deciding third ODI against England at the Riverside Ground in Chester-le-Street on Tuesday.

Kaur’s explosive knock, studded with 14 boundaries, not only anchored India’s innings but also saw her cross the milestone of 4,000 ODI runs, becoming only the third Indian woman after Smriti Mandhana and the legendary Mithali Raj to achieve the feat. Her century, the second-fastest by an Indian in women’s ODIs, was the backbone of India’s dominant batting display.

India’s Batting Fireworks

Opting to bat first, India got off to a solid start with openers Pratika Rawal (26) and Smriti Mandhana (45) stitching together a 64-run stand before England struck back with quick wickets. However, Kaur took charge, forging crucial partnerships—first an 81-run stand with Harleen Deol (45) and then a blistering 110-run fifth-wicket stand with Jemimah Rodrigues, who contributed a quickfire 50 off 45 balls.

The late surge came from Richa Ghosh, who blazed an unbeaten 38 off just 18 deliveries (strike rate 211.11), ensuring India breached the 300-mark with ease. This marked India’s eighth 300-plus total since January 2024, underlining their batting prowess.

England’s Bowling Efforts

England’s bowlers shared the wickets, with Sophie Ecclestone being the most economical. Lauren Bell and Lauren Filer picked up key scalps, but the hosts struggled to contain India’s relentless assault.

Chasing History

England now face a daunting target of 319 to clinch the series, which is currently level at 1-1. With India’s bowlers ready to defend their imposing total, the stage is set for a thrilling finale.

Kaur’s heroics have put India in a commanding position—will England rise to the challenge, or will India secure a memorable series victory?