In a spectacular display of batting prowess, Smriti Mandhana’s elegant seventh one-day international century, coupled with skipper Harmanpreet Kaur’s aggressive hundred, powered India to a formidable 325/3 against South Africa in the second women’s ODI here on Wednesday.

Opting to bat first, India faced a challenging start under overcast skies as South African bowlers Ayabonga Khaka and Masabata Klaas exploited early bounce and movement. However, Mandhana, in sublime form, quickly turned the tide with a dazzling 136 off just 120 balls, embellished with 18 boundaries and 2 sixes.

Harmanpreet Kaur, the captain, joined forces with Mandhana to forge a scintillating 171-run partnership for the third wicket. Harmanpreet’s unbeaten 103, her sixth ODI century, came off 88 deliveries and featured 9 fours and 3 sixes, further consolidating India’s dominant position.

The duo’s aggressive stroke play and astute running between the wickets left the South African bowlers reeling, unable to contain the onslaught. By the end of their innings, India had set a daunting target of 326 for victory, showcasing their batting depth and resilience.

South African captain Laura Wolvaardt’s decision to bowl first initially seemed justified, given the conditions, but Mandhana and Harmanpreet’s exceptional batting display turned the game in India’s favor. Now, the pressure shifts to the Proteas’ batting lineup as they face a challenging chase in the second innings.