WI Women beaten by India in T20 series decider

Smriti Mandhana delivered yet another masterclass by scoring a scintillating 77 off 47 balls, while Richa Ghosh smashed a 21-ball 54 to propel India to a 60-run victory over the West Indies in the third T20 International (T20I) in Navi Mumbai yesterday. The win sealed the series 2-1 for the hosts, capping off a dominant display with both bat and ball.

Batting first on a well-worn pitch that had been used in the previous two games, India raced to a mammoth total of 217. Mandhana’s stylish innings provided the backbone, while Ghosh’s explosive finish ensured a target that was well beyond the regional side’s reach.

India’s innings began on a shaky note with Uma Chetry falling in the very first over to Chinelle Henry for nought. However, Mandhana quickly shifted gears, counterattacking to put the pressure back on the bowlers.

Her aggressive approach during the powerplay saw India rack up 61 runs in the first six overs. Jemimah Rodrigues played the perfect foil as her fluent 39 off 28 balls aided Mandhana in a 98-run stand that set the tone for the innings.

Rodrigues fell shortly after the drinks break, but young Raghvi Bist (31 not out off 22) supported Mandhana in a 44-run partnership. Mandhana looked poised for a century before being deceived by a slower delivery from Deandra Dottin.

Following Mandhana’s dismissal, Ghosh took centre stage, launching an assault that left the opposition in disarray. The stocky right-hander smashed five sixes and three fours as she equalled the record for the fastest 50 by an Indian in T20Is, reaching the milestone in just 18 balls.

Chasing a daunting 218, the West Indies faltered early. Qiana Joseph hit a six but fell shortly after for 11 as India’s gamble to open with part-time spinner Sajeevan Sajana paid off.

Hayley Matthews (22 off 17) and Dottin (25 off 17) tried to stabilise the innings but failed to inject the urgency required. Their dismissals under the mounting asking rate effectively ended the contest.

Chinelle Henry provided some late fireworks with a powerful 43 off 16 balls, but the lack of support from other batters meant that the Windies never came close.

Radha Yadav starred with the ball by bagging four for 29 as the weight of India’s massive total proved insurmountable, ensuring the series-clinching win.