In the series decider of the three-match WODI series between India Women and New Zealand Women, Brooke Halliday’s fighting innings rescued the visitors as they set a challenging target for the hosts India Women. 

At the level position of the series (1-1), New Zealand Women captain Sophie Devine chose to bat first at Ahmedabad. The visitors scored 232 all out in 49.5 overs. 

Top batters lost wickets cheaply

Three of the first four batters were dismissed cheaply as New Zealand Women were battling at 39/3 in the 11th over. Opener Suzie Bates (4), Lauren Down (1), and skipper Devine (9) failed to reach the double-digit scores. 

Plimmer and Halliday handled the early pressure

In-form opener Georgia Plimmer then set up a 30-run partnership for the fourth wicket. After Plimmer was dismissed by Priya Mishra, Maddy Green (15) lost her wicket cheaply through a run-out. 

Halliday inspired the White Ferns

For the sixth wicket, Halliday had a crucial 64-run partnership with the wicketkeeper-batter Isabella Gaze. Deepti Sharma’s caught and bowled sent Gaze (25) back to the pavilion, while Plimmer scored a 72-ball 50. 

With Hannah Rowe, Halliday secured another crucial 47-run partnership for the seventh wicket. After her half-century, the left-handed middle-order batter scored aggressively. With the help of nine fours and three sixes, Halliday scored 86 off 96 balls before Deepti Sharma dismissed her.

Lea Tahuhu had a useful cameo with 24 not out in 14 balls with two fours and one six.

Among the Indian bowlers, Deepti Sharma (3/39) took three wickets, while Priya Mishra (2/41) got two wickets. Also, Renuka Singh (1/49) and Saima Thakor (1/44) picked up one wicket each.