Zimbabwe Women Fall To India In First ODI Despite Biza Half-Century

Zimbabwe Women suffered a nine-wicket defeat against India in the opening ODI in Vadodara on Friday, despite a fighting half-century from teenage batter Beloved Biza.

After electing to bat first at Kotambi Stadium, Zimbabwe were bowled out for 197. India chased down the target comfortably, reaching 200 for one in 27.1 overs to win with 137 balls remaining.

Biza top-scored with 62 runs, recording her fourth ODI half-century. At 17 years and 291 days, she also became the second-youngest woman to score an ODI half-century against India, behind England’s Sarah Taylor.

Zimbabwe struggled to build partnerships after losing opener Loryn Phiri early. Modester Mupachikwa made 25 from 43 balls, while Michelle Mavunga added a quick 29 off 23 deliveries to help lift the total.

India’s bowlers kept Zimbabwe under pressure, with N Shree Charani taking four wickets for 23 runs and Kranti Gaud claiming three for 42.

In reply, Pratika Rawal struck an unbeaten 100 from 96 balls, while Shafali Verma smashed an unbeaten 64 off just 33 deliveries.

Rawal and Smriti Mandhana shared 94 runs for the opening wicket before Mandhana fell for 28. Shafali then accelerated the chase, reaching her half-century from 29 balls as India cruised to victory.

The result gives India a 1-0 lead in the ODI series, leaving Zimbabwe with work to do in their next outing.