Pratika (100*), Charani (4/23) star in 9-wicket win in 1st WODI
Vadodara: Pratika Rawal struck an unbeaten century and left-arm spinner Shree Charani claimed a career-best 4/23 as India thrashed Zimbabwe by nine wickets in the opening women’s ODI of the three-match series here on Friday.
After Charani and Kranti Gaud (3/42) bowled out Zimbabwe for 197, India chased down the target in just 27.1 overs, finishing at 200 for one.
Pratika, promoted to open the innings, remained unbeaten on 100 off 92 balls. She she hit 15 fours to register her third century in the 50-over format.
Shafali Verma, batting at No 3, provided an aggressive foil with an unbeaten 64 off just 33 balls, including four sixes and five fours. The duo added impetus to the chase after Smriti Mandhana fell for 32, having shared a 94-run opening stand with Pratika.
Earlier, Zimbabwe managed 197 before being bowled out despite Beloved Biza’s fighting 62 off 92 balls, which included five fours.
Charani struck at crucial intervals, dismissing openers Modester Mupachikwa (25) and Chipo Mugeri-Tiripano (21) before removing Nyasha Gwanzura (13) and Michelle Mavunga (29).
Kranti Gaud supported her well with three wickets, while Deepti Sharma claimed two.
India’s fielding remained a concern, however, with wicketkeeper Richa Ghosh and Deepti Sharma dropping catches, while Gaud missed a difficult chance in the deep.
