IND vs NZ W: Smriti's ton seals series win for India

Smriti Mandhana played a match-winning knock of 102 not out as India beat New Zealand by six wickets in the third and final ODI to win the series 2-1.

After winning the toss and opting to bat first, New Zealand posted a total of 232/10 in 49.5 overs. Amy Satterthwaite top-scored for the visitors with 63, while Suzie Bates and Maddy Green contributed 45 and 43 respectively.

In reply, India got off to a blistering start as Mandhana and Shafali Verma put on a 120-run partnership for the first wicket. Mandhana continued to anchor the innings after Verma's dismissal, finding support from Harmanpreet Kaur (50) and Yastika Bhatia (38) to guide India to a comfortable victory.

Mandhana's innings was a masterclass in batting, as she paced her innings perfectly and played some delightful strokes all around the ground. She reached her century off just 108 balls, and her knock included 11 fours and one six.

The win gives India a much-needed boost ahead of the upcoming ICC Women's T20 World Cup. Mandhana, in particular, will be a key player for India in the tournament, and her performance in this series will give her immense confidence.

Here are some of the highlights from Mandhana's innings:

She hit 11 fours and one six.
She reached her century off just 108 balls.
She was unbeaten on 102 at the end of the innings.
Her innings helped India chase down the target with ease.

Mandhana's performance was praised by fans and experts alike:

"Smriti Mandhana is a class act. She is one of the best batters in the world, and she showed why today with a brilliant century. She paced her innings perfectly and played some delightful strokes." - Harsha Bhogle
"Smriti Mandhana is a special player. She has the ability to win matches for India single-handedly. She is a true match-winner." - Sourav Ganguly
"Smriti Mandhana is a role model for young girls all over the country. She shows that anything is possible if you work hard and believe in yourself." - Mithali Raj