Smriti Mandhana Steps Up as Captain in India’s ODI Series Against New Zealand

October 2024 | Ahmedabad
The India women’s cricket team, led by stand-in captain Smriti Mandhana, is currently facing New Zealand in a three-match ODI series held at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad. Regular skipper Harmanpreet Kaur was ruled out for the series opener due to a minor injury, prompting Mandhana to assume the captaincy and lead a relatively young squad aiming to establish a stronghold in preparation for the 2025 ICC Women’s ODI World Cup.

This ODI series represents a pivotal moment for India, with key lineup changes focused on nurturing new talent and strengthening core strategies. Mandhana, who has captained India in T20 formats, made her ODI captaincy debut in the first match. The decision underscores the selectors’ confidence in her leadership abilities as India seeks to reinforce its batting lineup and experiment with fresh talent in preparation for upcoming tournaments. Notably, young debutants Tejal Hasabnis and Saima Thakor were brought into the lineup, marking a fresh approach in the Indian team’s composition.

First ODI: Mandhana Leads with Confidence

Winning the toss, India opted to bat first. With Harmanpreet’s absence shifting the batting order, the team relied on players like Shafali Verma, Yastika Bhatia, and Jemimah Rodrigues to set a formidable total. Dayalan Hemalatha moved up in the batting lineup, reflecting an adaptive strategy to compensate for Kaur’s absence. India displayed solid performances, particularly from the openers, achieving a stable platform to defend their score in the first innings​

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Mandhana’s leadership has added vigor to India’s pursuit, demonstrating her experience and confidence on the field. New Zealand’s squad, led by Sophie Devine, also featured a balanced lineup with key players like Amelia Kerr and Suzie Bates, presenting a challenging opponent. Despite this, India managed a 59-run victory, with standout performances from both the senior players and new additions, giving the team an edge in the opening game of the series​

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Challenges and Strategic Adaptations

This series highlights India’s efforts to fine-tune its roster, balancing seasoned players with emerging talents. Harmanpreet’s absence due to an injury raised questions about India’s resilience under a backup leadership, especially in a transitional phase leading to the 2025 World Cup. With recent performances in the T20 World Cup 2024 showcasing India’s potential and areas for improvement, this ODI series against New Zealand serves as an opportunity for players to demonstrate their mettle and for the management to make tactical decisions.

Mandhana’s performance as captain and her contributions as a top-order batsman are closely watched, especially given her role in anchoring India’s batting. This captaincy stint offers her valuable experience and reinforces her leadership qualities, signaling her potential as a future mainstay in the Indian cricket leadership lineup​

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New Zealand’s Counter Approach

The New Zealand squad arrived with a focus on a flexible lineup and strategic player adjustments. While they boast seasoned players like Amelia Kerr and Sophie Devine, the team is experimenting with players like Molly Penfold in the bowling attack. Lauren Down’s return to the lower middle order post-maternity leave has bolstered New Zealand’s batting depth. The White Ferns aim to challenge India’s revamped lineup, leveraging their tactical experience from the recent T20 World Cup and focusing on a strong bowling attack.

Outlook for the Series

As the series progresses, the spotlight remains on Mandhana’s ability to steer India through leadership challenges. With one victory secured, India aims to continue its momentum. This series provides a preparatory ground for India’s strategy refinement, with particular focus on integrating young players into high-pressure matches. The results will offer insights into India’s preparedness for the larger stage of the Women’s ODI World Cup 2025, where experienced players and emerging talents are expected to play synergistically.

This ODI series stands as a testament to the evolving landscape of Indian women’s cricket, as young talents rise to prominence alongside established players under a new captain’s leadership. The remaining matches will further reveal the resilience of India’s approach and New Zealand’s response as the teams compete for series victory.