On December 24, 2024, at Vadodara's Reliance Stadium, the India Women's cricket team delivered a commanding performance against the West Indies Women in the second One Day International (ODI) of the series. Opting to bat first after winning the toss, India amassed a formidable total of 358 for 5, their joint-highest ODI score, thanks to stellar contributions from Harleen Deol, Pratika Rawal, Smriti Mandhana, and Jemimah Rodrigues.

The innings was anchored by Harleen Deol, who achieved her maiden ODI century, scoring 115 runs. Her innings was a blend of patience and aggression, featuring 12 boundaries and two sixes. Deol's partnership with Pratika Rawal was particularly significant, as they added 129 runs for the third wicket, stabilizing the innings after the early dismissals of the openers. Rawal's contribution of 76 runs was equally vital, showcasing her ability to rotate the strike and find the boundary when needed.

Smriti Mandhana provided a brisk start at the top of the order, scoring 53 runs off 48 balls, including seven fours. Her aggressive approach set the tone for the innings, putting the West Indies bowlers on the back foot early on. Jemimah Rodrigues, coming in at number five, maintained the momentum with a fluent 52 off 38 deliveries, finding gaps and running between the wickets efficiently.

The West Indies bowlers struggled to contain the Indian batters, with only a few managing to pick up wickets. Their efforts were hampered by inconsistent lines and lengths, allowing the Indian batters to capitalize and build substantial partnerships. The fielding unit also had an off day, with several misfields and dropped catches contributing to India's imposing total.

Chasing a daunting target of 359, the West Indies Women faced an uphill battle. Captain Hayley Matthews led from the front with a resilient century, scoring 106 runs off 109 balls. Her innings was characterized by excellent shot selection and the ability to punish loose deliveries. However, she received limited support from the other end, with Shemaine Campbelle being the next highest scorer with 38 runs.

The Indian bowlers executed their plans effectively, maintaining pressure through disciplined line and length. Priya Mishra was the pick of the bowlers, claiming 3 wickets for 49 runs. Her spell in the middle overs was crucial in breaking partnerships and curbing the scoring rate. Deepti Sharma and Titas Sadhu also made significant contributions, each taking two wickets and ensuring that the West Indies innings never gained the required momentum. 

The fielding effort from the Indian side was commendable, with sharp catches and agile ground fielding adding to the pressure on the West Indies batters. The energy and commitment displayed in the field reflected the team's determination to secure the series with a game to spare.

This victory not only secured an unassailable 2-0 lead in the series for India but also highlighted the depth and balance within the squad. The combination of a powerful batting lineup and a versatile bowling attack positions them favorably as they prepare for upcoming international challenges.

The West Indies team, while showing moments of brilliance, will need to reassess their strategies and execution, particularly in the bowling department, to bounce back in the final match of the series. Addressing the inconsistencies and building more substantial partnerships will be key areas of focus as they aim to end the series on a positive note.

As the series progresses, fans and analysts alike will be keen to observe how both teams adapt and respond to the evolving dynamics, with the final ODI offering an opportunity for further competitive cricket and individual performances.