ENG-W vs IND-W: ODIs – 5 Players to watch out for

The T20I series between England and India came to an end with the hosts clinching a 2-1 win against India in the third and final match at Bristol. The two teams will now lock horns for a three-match ODI series which is set to commence on September 18, with the final game scheduled to be played on September 24 at the Lord’s.

The T20I series saw English players majorly dominating over the Women in Blue, but with another big opportunity in hand, India would look to turn the tables and grab an early advantage in the ODIs. All three games will be a part of the ICC Championship games, helping the teams gain some big points. On that note, let us have a look at the players to watch out for in the contest-

5. Smriti Mandhana

The prolific India opener will look to keep her good form going even in the ODIs. In recent times, Smriti Mandhana has performed very well in the white-ball international and league games. She has been playing continuous cricket and would look to carry the momentum even in the ODIs. Mandhana was the leading run-scorer for India in the T20Is and finished as the second-highest run scorer of the tournament with 111 runs from three games, including a half-century.

4. Sophia Dunkley

Sophia Dunkley has only impressed since making her debut. Shortly after entering the international arena, she became a regular on the side and is seen playing. The young opening batter left a mark across all formats and finished as the highest run scorer of the T20I series. She scored 115 runs in three games, including a half-century, and contributed to both of England’s wins.

3. Harmanpreet Kaur

The Indian skipper has been a reliable player in the white-ball games. Batting in the middle order, she has provided her side with some crucial, match-winning knocks. In India’s most recent ODI series against Sri Lanka, Harmanpreet Kaur bagged the player of the series award for her consistency with the bat. Though the T20I series against England did not go as planned for her, she will try to lead from the front and put up a show.

2. Sophie Ecclestone

The World No. 1 has given impressive performances for England and has been the reason behind the team’s victories many times. Sophie Ecclestone, who is currently the No. 1 bowler in both ODIs and T20Is in the ICC Rankings, has also played a role with the bat under pressure situations by adding the quick-fire runs on board. She has one of the finest economies, of 3.70, among all other active cricketers which is just another factor determining her caliber.

1. Jhulan Goswami

The veteran India pacer will be playing her final international series, and the last ODI at Lord’s will be her farewell game. After an illustrious career of over two decades, Jhulan Goswami, the leading wicket-taker in Women’s Internationals, is set to retire from international cricket. This will be her first and final outing since the end of the Women’s World Cup, and thus she will look to be at her best and bid adieu on a high note.