Vadodara ODI: India Chase 2-0 Lead, Zimbabwe Hunt First Win

The second ODI between India and Zimbabwe women's teams on Sunday presents India with a chance to make a strong statement in the series. Led by Smriti Mandhana, the hosts want to go 2-0 up at the BCA Cricket Stadium in Vadodara and remain unbeaten.

For Zimbabwe, the stakes are equally high. They are yet to win a game on this tour and will be keen to turn their fortunes around in Vadodara.

The first match showed the strength of India's attack. Sree Charani was the pick of the bowlers with 4 wickets, which proved decisive as Zimbabwe were bowled out for 197. Kranti Gaud chipped in with 3 wickets for 42 runs, while Deepti Sharma was also effective with the ball.

India's top order produced a memorable display in the first ODI. Pratika Rawal finished unbeaten on a century, batting 96 balls and hitting 15 fours. Shefali Verma, who continued her good T20 form, remained unbeaten on 64 from 33 balls. Smriti Mandhana also scored 32. The Indian batting has looked assured in the T20 series against Zimbabwe, adding to the confidence in the camp.

Zimbabwe's batting has been a source of concern. Against spin, their batters have repeatedly struggled, with the team's innings often collapsing. Bilvad Beeja was the exception, playing a lone hand of 62. Five Zimbabwe batters failed to reach double figures, and their bowlers were out of rhythm in the first game.

The Vadodara pitch appeared to suit spinners in the opening match. The ball turned well, although batters who got set found it easy to accumulate runs. The average first-innings score at this venue is 266 runs, and the average second-innings score is 203.

There is good news for fans, as weather is expected to be clear in Vadodara on Sunday, with no chance of rain.