Fri Dec 27 13:00:23 UTC 2024: ## India Clinches 3-0 ODI Series Sweep Against West Indies

**Mumbai, India** – India ended its 2024 Women’s cricket calendar on a high note, completing a dominant 3-0 series sweep against the West Indies in the final ODI match today. While a 163-run target initially seemed achievable, the early dismissals of Smriti Mandhana and Harleen Deol briefly ignited hopes for the visitors. The West Indies further fueled their comeback hopes by removing Pratika Rawal and Harmanpreet Kaur within a short span.

However, a crucial 59-run partnership between Jemimah Rodrigues and Deepti Sharma solidified India’s victory. The duo effectively neutralized the spin threat, employing sweeps and rotating the strike skillfully. Richa Ghosh then finished the match in style, smashing two consecutive sixes off Afy Fletcher.

Renuka Singh was instrumental in India’s success, claiming the Player of the Series award for her consistent wicket-taking. Deepti Sharma, named Player of the Match in the final ODI, contributed significantly with both bat and ball. Her crucial wicket of Hayley Matthews proved pivotal in stifling the West Indies’ chase.

While acknowledging the West Indies’ fight, particularly Hayley Matthews’ fifty and the team’s improved second-half performance, Captain Hayley Matthews admitted their batting needed improvement. Young Indian debutant Pratika Rawal expressed her excitement about her first series and eagerness to improve further.

Indian captain Harmanpreet Kaur praised the team’s mental strength and collective effort. She highlighted Renuka’s bowling prowess and the contributions of Deepti and Jemimah, while acknowledging the need to improve fielding. Jemimah Rodrigues emphasized the bowlers’ crucial role in securing the win and the team’s determination to learn from past setbacks.

The series win serves as a positive boost for India ahead of the upcoming 2025 ODI World Cup, which they will host. The victory showcased India’s strength in depth and its promising young talent, setting a strong foundation for the future.

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