2nd WODI: Jemimah Achieves First Century as India Sets 370 for 5 Against Ireland

Rajkot, Jan 12: Jemimah Rodrigues achieved her first century in 50-over cricket while the Indian top order dominated a struggling Ireland, setting an impressive total of 370 for 5 in the second Women’s ODI on Sunday. The stylish captain Smriti Mandhana set the pace with a quickfire 73 off just 54 balls, establishing a strong foundation, while Rodrigues’ maiden hundred—102 off 91 balls—secured a comfortable finish for India.
New talent Patika Rawal (67 off 61 balls) and experienced Harleen Deol (89 off 84 balls) also capitalized on the lackluster bowling attack.
The Indian innings featured two significant partnerships: 156 runs off 19 overs between Mandhana and Rawal, and another 183 runs off 28 overs between Rodrigues and Deol.
In total, the Indian batters hit an astonishing 44 boundaries and three sixes during their innings.
Rodrigues had previously struggled to convert her potential into runs, having scored only six half-centuries in 40 matches. However, after hitting a boundary off medium pacer Arlene Kelly, her relief was evident as she celebrated with a playful guitar gesture using her bat.
“It has been a long wait to achieve this hundred. I’m grateful that the team positioned me at No. 4, allowing me to contribute,” Rodrigues shared with Star Sports during the innings break.
“For me, it was crucial to stay until the 50th over. Scoring runs isn’t an issue, but finishing the innings was vital, and I’m pleased I could fulfill that role.”
She also mentioned that during their 183-run partnership, she and Deol took time to gauge the pitch conditions.
“With Harleen by my side, we initially focused on assessing the surface. I knew I could accelerate, but while I was cautious, Harleen encouraged me to keep the faith.
“We must never underestimate any team; we’ve seen in domestic cricket that 390 runs can be chased,” she cautioned. (PTI)