Sun Oct 27 09:19:16 UTC 2024: ## India Clinches First ODI Match Against New Zealand by 59 Runs

**Ahmedabad:** The Indian women’s cricket team kicked off their ODI series against New Zealand with a resounding victory, claiming a dominant 59-run win in the first match on Thursday.

India, batting first, posted a respectable score of 227, with contributions from several players. Debutante Tejal Hasabnis impressed with a knock of 42 runs, while Deepti Sharma (41 runs) and Yastika Bhatia (37 runs) played vital roles. Jemimah Rodrigues (35 runs) and Shafali Verma (33 runs) also added valuable runs. However, captain Smriti Mandhana failed to make an impact, falling early for 5 runs. Amelia Kerr (4/42) and Jess Kerr (3/49) were the pick of the New Zealand bowlers.

In pursuit of a challenging target, the New Zealand women’s team faltered against the Indian bowlers. The Indian spin duo, led by Radha Yadav (3/35), suffocated the Kiwi batting line-up, with debutant pacer Saima Thakur (2/26) also providing crucial breakthroughs. Deepti Sharma (1/35) also picked up a wicket.

Despite a valiant effort from Brooke Halliday (39 runs), who was the top-scorer for the Kiwis, New Zealand could only manage 168 runs, losing their last wicket in the 40.4th over. Maddy Green (31 runs) and Amelia Kerr (25* runs) also made notable contributions.

Deepti Sharma was adjudged the ‘Player of the Match’ for her all-round performance.

This victory gives India a 1-0 lead in the three-match series. The second ODI will be played on Sunday.

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