Smriti Mandhana and Laura Wolvaardt [Source: @Werries_/X]
The first match of the tri-series between India and Sri Lanka has been done and dusted and it's time for another clash as South Africa preps up. The 2nd ODI of the tri-series fixture will take place at R. Premadasa Stadium on April 29 between India Women and South Africa Women from 10 AM IST.
South Africa Women
South Africa Women had a mixed run recently, losing two matches against England Women after winning the first ODI in that series. Earlier against India, they fell short while chasing big totals, losing the last two ODIs despite putting up competitive scores. Hence, the Proteas will aim to deliver a complete performance and start their campaign on a positive note.
India Women
India Women will enter their next Tri-Nation Series match high on confidence after a commanding nine-wicket win over Sri Lanka Women, where skipper Harmanpreet Kaur made a strong return to leadership. With a strong bowling unit and in-form top-order batters, India will look to maintain their winning momentum in the series.
The pitch at Premadasa Stadium offers good batting conditions early, with consistent bounce and carry for stroke-makers. However, it slows down as the match progresses, assisting spinners with variable bounce and turn. Though India won the first match while chasing, it should be noted that the women in blue were struggling to make runs. Hence, the captain winning the toss will likely prefer batting first to set a challenging total.
Players To Watch Out For In INDW vs SAW 2nd ODI
India Women
Sneh Rana
Sneh Rana impressed in the Sri Lanka outing with her 3/31 in 8 overs. With an economy rate of 3.88 in the match, she was the leading stifler for Sri Lanka's woes. Hence, as the 2nd ODI will be played on the same pitch, Rana might be the wrecker-in-chief again.
Smriti Mandhana
Smriti Mandhana’s composed 43 off 46 balls against Sri Lanka showed she is in excellent touch, and her ability to pace the innings smartly will be crucial against a stronger South Africa attack.
Pratika Rawal
Pratika Rawal's unbeaten 50 off 62 in the Sri Lanka outing speaks for her credibility with the bat. The dominance and recent form of Pratika is to watch out for as she will sharpen her sword again in the 2nd ODI.
South Africa Women
Tazmin Brits
Tazmin Brits provide stability at the top with her solid technique and patient approach. Her ability to anchor the innings will be key in setting or chasing big totals. With 770 runs in her bag and a strike rate of 70.16, she might be a key player for South Africa.
Ayabonga Khaka
Khaka’s disciplined line and length make her South Africa’s most reliable seam bowler. She is known for breaking crucial partnerships and keeping the scoring rate low. She has packed 131 wickets while bowling at an economy rate of 4.20 and hence, can be an obstacle in India's run spree.
Laura Wolvaardt
Laura Wolvaardt can build big innings and control the game from one end if she settles down. As South Africa’s captain and star batter, her form will help the team step up. Laura boasts 4303 ODI runs at an average of 50.03 further solidifying her reliability.
Today's Match Prediction: INDW vs SAW 2nd ODI
Predicted Top Performers
Sri Lanka Women - Ayabonga Khaka, Laura Wolvaardt, Tazmin Brits India Women - Sneh Rana, Pratika Rawal, Smriti Mandhana
INDW vs SAW 2nd ODI: Predicted Score
Predicted first innings score: 200-220 Predicted second innings score: 190-200
Predicted Result: The team batting first will likely have an advantage in this match.