Harmanpreet’s Heroics and Gaud’s 6-For Seal ODI Series Win for India:
In a thrilling decider that had fans on the edge of their seats, India Women secured a remarkable 2-1 series victory over England Women, thanks to a record-breaking century by skipper Harmanpreet Kaur and a sensational six-wicket haul from young pacer Arundhati Reddy Gaud.
Harmanpreet Kaur: The Captain Who Leads by Example
Harmanpreet Kaur once again proved why she’s considered one of the finest batters in women’s cricket. Her commanding knock of 110 off 102 balls was a masterclass in controlled aggression and smart shot selection. From the moment she stepped onto the pitch, she looked determined to anchor the Indian innings.
She brought up her century with a signature lofted drive over cover, leaving the crowd at the edge of their seats. This was her 6th ODI hundred and arguably one of her most impactful, setting up India’s total of 268/8.
Her partnerships with Jemimah Rodrigues and Deepti Sharma helped build the innings steadily, after an early wobble at the top. Kaur’s innings was not just about power but also about maturity—rotating the strike, targeting the weaker bowlers, and leading from the front when it mattered most.
Gaud’s Dream Spell: 6/26 That Rattled England
If Kaur’s century laid the foundation, it was Arundhati Reddy Gaud who broke England’s back. Her jaw-dropping spell of 6/26 in 8.3 overs dismantled the English batting order and turned the match into a one-sided affair during the chase.
Bowling with rhythm and swing, she removed both openers early and came back in her second spell to clean up the tail. It was a complete bowling performance—accurate lines, smart variations, and lethal yorkers that stunned the visitors.
At just 21, Gaud has already shown glimpses of becoming a future leader of India’s pace attack.
A Series Win to Remember
With this win, India clinched the three-match ODI series 2-1, marking an important triumph ahead of the ICC Women’s Championship fixtures. The victory was a perfect blend of experience and youth—Harmanpreet’s calm leadership and Gaud’s fiery pace showing the team’s depth and balance.
This series also saw key contributions from youngsters like Richa Ghosh and Radha Yadav, suggesting that India’s bench strength is in good shape.
Final Takeaway
India Women’s cricket continues to rise, and performances like these only reinforce the belief that they are strong contenders on the global stage. With the Women’s World Cup on the horizon, this victory adds confidence, momentum, and belief.
