Former India captain Anjum Chopra explained why Smriti Mandhana and Pratika Rawal have managed to achieve great success as an opening pair in ODI cricket. The left-right combination has scored runs for fun since joining forces in December 2024.
On Thursday, October 23, Smriti and Rawal added a staggering 212-run stand off 201 balls, laying the foundation for a 53-run win (via DLS method) for India against New Zealand at the Dr DY Patil Sports Academy in Navi Mumbai. This turned out to be the highest
partnership for any wicket for India at Women's World Cups. They have now registered seven century partnerships, the joint-most by a pair for India in Women's ODIs, equalling Mithali Raj and Punam Raut's record.
Anjum believes that Smriti and Rawal know each other's strengths and weaknesses. She noted that the strength of their partnership lies in its calmness and clarity.
“What makes Smriti and Pratika’s partnership special is their calmness and clarity. They understand their roles perfectly. Smriti even mentioned after winning Player of the Match that they focus on playing their individual games and trust that the partnership will deliver results. For any opening pair, understanding each other’s strengths and complementing them is crucial," Chopra said while speaking to Star Sports.
Her effort, composure, and ability to handle expectations stand out far more than the raw numbers: Anjum Chopra on Pratika Rawal
Smriti and Rawal scored 109 (95) and 122 (134) against the White Ferns. Anjum said that the latter's composure under pressure has stood out during the initial days in her career.
“What’s most impressive about Pratika Rawal is her journey from a domestic cricketer who hasn’t played in the WPL to becoming a consistent performer at the international level. She has delivered under pressure, whether against Ireland, the West Indies, or in challenging conditions in Bangladesh and Sri Lanka. Her effort, composure, and ability to handle expectations stand out far more than the raw numbers. Scoring 1,000 runs in just 23 innings is impressive, but it’s the manner in which she has handled pressure and responsibility that truly makes her journey remarkable," Chopra explained.
India managed to qualify for the semi-finals with the win against New Zealand. They will now face Bangladesh on Sunday, October 26, in their final encounter in the league phase. The knockouts get underway from October 29.
