In the opening ODI of the series at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium, Smriti Mandhana's splendid maiden century on home soil laid the foundation for India's commanding 143-run victory over South Africa. Mandhana's composed innings of 117 runs anchored India to a competitive total of 265/8, despite early setbacks for the hosts against a disciplined South African bowling attack.
Facing challenging conditions with variable bounce, India struggled initially as they lost wickets at regular intervals. Early dismissals of Shafali Verma, D Hemalatha, Harmanpreet Kaur, Jemimah Rodrigues, and Richa Ghosh left India in a precarious position at 99/5 after 22 overs. However, Mandhana found a resolute partner in Deepti Sharma, and the duo stabilised the innings with an 81-run partnership. Mandhana battled cramps but continued to score crucial runs, ultimately reaching her century with a blend of cautious play and occasional aggressive strokes.
Despite a brief halt in boundaries, Mandhana and Deepti managed to guide India to a respectable total, with contributions from lower-order batsmen like Pooja Vastrakar. Mandhana's innings finally concluded with her dismissal for 117, receiving applause from teammates and spectators alike.
In response, South Africa faltered early in their chase as India's new-ball pair struck early. Renuka Thakur and Pooja Vastrakar dismissed Laura Wolvaardt and Anneke Bosch respectively to leave South Africa reeling at 21/2. The introduction of spin further tightened India's grip on the match, as Tazmin Brits and Marizanne Kapp fell victim to Deepti Sharma and Asha Sobhana respectively. Asha Sobhana, making her ODI debut, impressed with figures of 4/21, playing a pivotal role in dismantling South Africa's middle order.
Despite a brief resistance from Sune Luus, who scored some boundaries, South Africa continued to lose wickets at crucial junctures. Asha Sobhana and Deepti Sharma ensured the lower order couldn't pose a threat, leading to South Africa's eventual collapse for 122 runs in 38 overs
Overall, it was a comprehensive performance by India, combining a stellar batting effort led by Smriti Mandhana with disciplined bowling from the spinners to secure a convincing victory and take a 1-0 lead in the multi-format series.