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Smriti Mandhana achieved a determined half-century during Day 2 of the Only Test between India Women and Australia Women. The left-handed batter accumulated 74 runs off 106 balls, featuring 12 fours, in challenging playing conditions.
Mandhana remained not out on 43 at Stumps on Day 1, contributing to India's total of 98 for one after dismissing the opposition for 219 in 77.4 overs.
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In the first session of Day 2, The 27-year-old achieved her half-century in 68 balls and seemed poised for a substantial score. However, she was run out against the flow of the game due to a mix-up with Richa Ghosh, who stepped in for the injured Shubha Satheesh in the Indian XI.
In the fourth ball of the 39th over, Mandhana gently played a shot to the off-side off Ash Gardner. Ghosh, positioned at the opposite end, immediately signalled for a single. However, Mandhana hesitated and initiated her run a bit too late.
When Kim Garth removed the bails at the non-striker's end, Mandhana's bat was just on the line. She departed, and India's score stood at 147 for the loss of three wickets in 38.4 overs. Mandhana, in partnership with Shafali Verma, had earlier contributed 90 runs for the opening wicket, setting a solid foundation for India.
Later on, she formed a partnership of 50 runs for the second wicket with Sneh Rana, who took on the role of a nightwatchman.
Mandhana had a disappointing performance in the Test match against England at the Dr DY Patil Sports Academy in Navi Mumbai, scoring 17 and 26. However, her innings against Australia, facing Alyssa Healy, is likely to boost her confidence.
(Powered by AI, Inputs by India Today)
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