Openers Smriti Mandhana and Pratika Rawal struck contrasting centuries and shared a record 212-run opening partnership to set up India’s 53-run victory (via DLS method) over New Zealand in a rain-affected Match 24 of the ICC Women’s ODI World Cup in Navi Mumbai on Thursday.

Mandhana produced a stroke-filled 109 off 95 balls, while Rawal anchored the innings with a composed 122 off 134 balls as India piled up 340/3 in 49 overs. After rain interrupted play, New Zealand were set a revised target of 325 in 44 overs, but despite spirited efforts from Brooke Halliday (81), Isabella Gaze (65 not out), and Amelia Kerr (45), the White Ferns fell short, finishing on 271/8, handing India a comprehensive DLS win.

The win sealed India’s place in the semifinals with six points, joining Australia, Engl

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