Wed Oct 30 00:20:58 UTC 2024: ## Mandhana’s Century Powers India to Series Win Over New Zealand
**Ahmedabad:** Smriti Mandhana’s century (100 runs off 122 balls) and a strong performance from Harmanpreet Kaur (59 not out) led India to a convincing 6-wicket victory over New Zealand in the third and final ODI, clinching the series 2-1 on Tuesday.
India chased down a target of 233 runs in 44.2 overs, losing four wickets in the process. After opener Shafali Verma was dismissed early for 12 runs, ‘Player of the Match’ Mandhana took charge, partnering with Yastika Bhatia (35) for a 76-run stand.
Captain Kaur joined Mandhana after Bhatia’s dismissal, and the duo added a crucial 118 runs for the third wicket, putting India firmly on course for victory. While Mandhana fell short of a century, Kaur remained unbeaten, finishing the match with 34 balls remaining.
Earlier, New Zealand, batting first after winning the toss, were bowled out for 232 runs in 49.5 overs. Brook Hallidy top-scored with 86 runs, while Deepti Sharma and Priya Misra took 3 and 2 wickets respectively for India. Jemimah Rodrigues was also impressive in the field, taking two run-outs.
With this victory, Mandhana became the highest century-scorer in ODIs for India, surpassing Mithali Raj’s record of 7 centuries.
**Brief Scores:**
**New Zealand:** 232 all out in 49.5 overs (Brook Hallidy 86; Deepti Sharma 3/39, Priya Misra 2/41)
**India:** 236/4 in 44.2 overs (Smriti Mandhana 100, Harmanpreet Kaur 59 not out; Hannah Rowe 2/47)
First Piper 