New Zealand Triumphs in ODI Against India: Path to ODI World Cup Bolstered

With a significant two weeks of achievements in the sport for the country, the victory picked up against India in Ahmedabad in the second ODI may seem understated. However, New Zealand not only achieved parity in the three-match series but also earned crucial Women's Championship points pushing their direct qualification path to next year's ODI World Cup. Most notably, the comprehensive 76-run victory was due to key contributions from the team's senior cricketers, particularly Sophie Devine's outstanding score of 79 off 86 in the team's total of 259, complimented with three wickets.

Just as in their T20 World Cup victory against India earlier this month, the foundation of this victory was established by openers Suzie Bates and Georgia Plimmer. The duo added an impressive 87 runs in 15.3 overs, relying more on timing than power. 

Despite some setbacks such as dropped catches during the innings and an injury-led return from Harmanpreet Kaur, India managed some breakthroughs through stellar fielding from Radha Yadav and an unforeseen dismissal of Plimmer. However, New Zealand found a re-injection of momentum at the opportune time. Contributions from Devine and Maddy Green helped New Zealand race past the 250 mark with Devine batting through. India’s chase began on a shaky note and the team struggled throughout, leading to New Zealand's triumphant win.