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Why Smriti Mandhana Is Not Playing Today In IND-W Vs AUS-W 1st ODI?

image-lqoy5gqjSmriti Mandhana last played for India in one-off Test against Australia at Wankhede [X.com]

After clinching the one-off Test against Australia last week, India kicked off its three-match One-Day International (ODI) against the same opposition at Mumbai's Wankhede Stadium today. Skipper Harmanpreet Kaur opted to bat after winning the toss; however, what came as a surprise for fans was the omission of opener Smriti Mandhana. Mandhana, as revealed by Kaur during the toss, is unwell and has remained unavailable for selection.

The captain did state that the management is expecting Mandhana to play the remaining two ODIs and attain full fitness. 

The Indian vice-captain has played 80 ODIs since 2013 and has amassed 3,179 runs with five centuries and 26 fifties, making her mark in international cricket as one of the best openers.

Mandhana last featured for India in only one Test against Australia, scoring a match-changing 74 and then an unbeaten 38* during their 75-run successful chase last week. 

Meanwhile, India handed young left-arm spinner Saika Ishaque her debut ODI cap, who has already played three T20Is, claiming five wickets.

As of writing, India are 49 for two, with skipper Kaur and wicketkeeper-batter Yastika Bhatia batting on 18* and 3*, respectively. 

Opener Shafali Verma's poor form continued as the explosive batter fell for 1, while promoted up the order, Richa Ghosh got out to Annabel Sutherland after scoring a quickfire 21 off 20.