New Delhi: Team India opener Pratika Rawal on batting with Smriti Mandhana said she has quickly adapted to the team setup and continues to showcase her batting form since her debut for the Women in Blue. She carried that momentum into the first ODI against Australia on Sunday.
With Shafali Verma struggling to find her rhythm, Smriti Mandhana partnered with Rawal, who debuted against the West Indies in December 2024. The duo has been delivering impressive performances for India in ODIs, including a historic partnership against Australia where they broke the world record for most runs added by any pair for any wicket in a calendar year.
In 2025, Smriti and Pratika piled up 958 runs together, surpassing the 905-run record set by Belinda Clark and Lisa Keightley in 2000. Rawal led India’s scoring in the ODI series opener against Australia with 64 runs off 96 balls, combining with Mandhana for a brilliant 114-run stand.
Speaking to JioHotstar, Pratika said, “I enjoy batting with her more than she enjoys batting with me, so it’s always great, especially the way she plays and takes on every ball. It’s just so amazing to see.”
India and Australia began their three-match series with the visitors clinching an easy win to lead 1-0. While India’s overall performance drew criticism, Mandhana and Rawal’s opening stand stood out.
India’s bowlers had performed exceptionally against England in their previous series, helping Harmanpreet Kaur’s side seal the ODIs 2-1 and T20Is 3-2. However, they failed to match that level against Australia, who secured the series opener by nine wickets.
Pratika remained confident in her team’s bowling attack, especially the spinners. “We have an amazing spin side, and the way the bowlers have been bowling this year, I think it’s going to be great for us,” she said.
India will wrap up their home series against Australia on September 20 before launching their ICC Women’s World Cup 2025 campaign on September 30 against Sri Lanka in Guwahati.
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