Smriti Mandanha Celebrates 'Really Special' Victory as India Clinches T20I Series Against Australia
Indian vice-captain Smriti Mandhana expressed profound delight following her team's hard-fought 17-run triumph over Australia in the decisive third T20I match. The victory secured a 4-2 lead for India in the multi-format series, marking a significant achievement in Australian conditions.
Match-Winning Partnership and Individual Brilliance
The foundation of India's success was laid by a spectacular 121-run partnership between Mandhana and Jemimah Rodrigues, propelling the visitors to a competitive total of 176/6. Mandhana's magnificent 82 runs from just 55 deliveries earned her the well-deserved Player of the Match award, while Rodrigues contributed a crucial 59 runs to the partnership.
"It was good to contribute to the series win," Mandhana stated during the post-match presentation. "I think beating Australia in Australia is something really special. I'm really happy for the team and glad that I could contribute."
Rodrigues' Crucial Role in Momentum Shift
Mandhana specifically highlighted Rodrigues' instrumental role in changing the game's momentum during their partnership. "When she came in, I think I was 16-ball 15 and still getting my timing, and she came in, got three or four boundaries, got the momentum going, and I could take some time," she explained.
The Indian opener credited Rodrigues' aggressive approach with helping her settle into the innings more comfortably. "Those quick boundaries helped calm me down," Mandhana acknowledged, praising her teammate's valuable knock that proved pivotal to India's batting success.
Historical Context and Bowling Excellence
Reflecting on the victory's significance, Mandhana noted, "I think we did beat them in 2016 back when we had come here, but I think we've played T20 after a very long time in Australia, so beating them is really nice."
India's bowlers complemented the batting performance with disciplined execution, claiming early wickets and maintaining consistent pressure throughout Australia's chase. Despite Ashleigh Gardner's fighting 57, the hosts were restricted to 159/9, thanks to India's tight bowling and exceptional fielding that included a spectacular diving catch by Rodrigues.
Forward Focus on ODI Series
Despite the memorable series-clinching victory, Mandhana emphasized the team's immediate focus shifting to the upcoming ODI series. "We will move on to the ODI series and not celebrate too much," she declared, demonstrating the team's professional approach and hunger for continued success.
With confidence bolstered by their T20I triumph, the Indian women's cricket team now prepares for the three-match ODI series commencing Tuesday. This represents another opportunity to build on their impressive Australian campaign following last year's historic World Cup victory.
The team's balanced performance—featuring explosive batting, disciplined bowling, and sharp fielding—positions them favorably as they seek to maintain their winning momentum in the longer format against the formidable Australian side.
