IND-W vs IRE-W: India achieve record 304-run victory over Ireland, securing series sweep

In a commanding display, the Indian women’s cricket team secured a 3-0 series sweep against Ireland with a record-breaking 304-run victory in the third ODI at Rajkot on January 15, 2025.

Opting to bat first, India posted a formidable 435/5, their highest ODI total to date. The innings were anchored by a 233-run opening partnership between captain Smriti Mandhana and Pratika Rawal. Mandhana led from the front, scoring 135 runs off 80 balls, including 12 fours and seven sixes. She reached her century in just 70 balls, setting a new record for the fastest ODI hundred by an Indian woman.

Rawal complemented her captain’s efforts with a maiden ODI century, amassing 154 runs off 129 deliveries. Her innings featured 20 boundaries and a six, showcasing a blend of composure and aggression. Richa Ghosh further accelerated the scoring with a quickfire 59 off 42 balls, propelling India to a mammoth total.

In response, Ireland’s batting lineup struggled against India’s disciplined bowling attack, collapsing to 131 all out in 31.4 overs. Sarah Forbes top-scored for the visitors with 41 runs, while Orla Prendergast contributed 36. Deepti Sharma was the standout bowler for India, claiming 3 wickets for 27 runs, with Tanuja Kanwar adding 2 wickets for 31 runs.

This victory not only completed a clean sweep for India but also marked their largest margin of victory in ODIs, surpassing the previous record of a 249-run win against Ireland in 2017. Mandhana’s leadership and the team’s all-round performance underscore India’s growing dominance in women’s cricket.