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Star India women’s batter Smriti Mandhana, known for her elegant stroke play, added a rare twist to her performance during the IND-W vs SA-W Women’s Tri-nation Series 2025 match at the R. Premadasa Stadium in Colombo — she bowled two tidy overs, surprising fans and opponents alike.
Primarily recognized for her batting brilliance, Mandhana rolled her arm over in the second innings of the match, delivering two overs of spin that impressed with accuracy and control. Her brief spell went for just 12 runs, maintaining a respectable economy rate of 6, even though she didn’t manage to pick up a wicket.
Before showcasing her all-round potential with the ball, Smriti Mandhana had already delivered a standout performance with the bat. She scored a fluent fifty in the first innings, laying a strong foundation for India’s imposing total of 337/9. Her knock was filled with crisp strokes and intelligent placement, once again underlining why she remains a key figure at the top of India’s batting order.
India Women, riding on their dominant batting display and disciplined bowling effort, secured a comfortable 23-run win over South Africa Women. The bowlers held their nerve in the chase, ensuring that the opposition fell short despite a spirited effort.
While Smriti Mandhana’s bowling cameo didn’t yield wickets, it added an exciting dimension to the game and showcased her versatility on the field. Fans on social media were quick to praise her surprise bowling effort, celebrating the rare moment of one of India’s premier batters showcasing her skills in more than one department.
As India continues its campaign in the Tri-nation series, Mandhana’s all-round display serves as a reminder of her ever-expanding skill set and leadership presence — a valuable asset for Indian women’s cricket.
