New Zealand's captain, Sophie Devine, delivered a spectacular all-round performance to lead her team to a convincing 76-run victory over India in the second ODI, leveling the three-match series at 1-1. Devine's heroics with both bat and ball proved too much for India to handle, as the White Ferns bounced back from their opening loss to set up a thrilling decider.
Devine's impactful 79 runs anchored New Zealand's innings, guiding them to a competitive total of 259. She then followed up with a stellar bowling performance, claiming crucial wickets, including that of Indian captain Harmanpreet Kaur and the dangerous Jemimah Rodrigues.
India's chase never truly gained momentum, faltering early on with the loss of key wickets. Despite a late surge from Radha Yadav (48) and Saima Thakor, who together forged India's highest-ever ninth-wicket partnership in ODIs, the hosts were unable to recover from their early setbacks.
This victory not only levels the series but also earns New Zealand crucial points in the Women's Championship, keeping their hopes of direct qualification for next year's World Cup alive. The final ODI promises to be a thrilling encounter, as both teams vie for series victory and bragging rights.
