Inoka Ranaweera stuns India, dismisses Harmanpreet, Rodrigues and Harleen in single over Women’s World Cup

INDW vs SLW Women's World Cup: The first match of the ODI World Cup 2025 being played between the women's teams of India and Sri Lanka at the ACA Stadium in Guwahati on Tuesday became exciting for the spectators and memorable in terms of bowling. 

Sri Lanka's experienced spinner Inoka Ranawere dismissed three of India's top batsmen in the 26th over. Her spin trapped Indian captain Harmanpreet Kaur, Jemimah Rodrigues, and Harleen Deol. The 39-year-old Sri Lankan spinner achieved this feat in the 26th over of India's innings. Her bowling created significant problems for the Indian team and completely changed the momentum of the match.

Ranavere's wonder

39-year-old Inoka Ranawere dismissed India captain Harmanpreet Kaur, Jemimah Rodrigues, and Harleen Deol in the same over. First, she dismissed Pratika Rawal, then Harleen Deol, restricting her to 48 runs and preventing her from scoring a half-century. Then, she clean bowled debutant Jemimah Rodrigues. Harmanpreet Kaur was caught by wicketkeeper Anushka Sanjeevani on the last ball of the over.

Record inserted record

Ranawere's achievement makes her the second-oldest player to take four wickets in a women's ODI. She also became the oldest player to take four wickets in a Women's World Cup. Her performance has become a source of inspiration for young players.

Changing course of the match

This over completely rocked India's innings. Opener Smriti Mandhana had been dismissed early, and Ranawere's over shattered India's new buildup. India lost several key wickets during this period, creating a tense atmosphere in the match. However, a hat-trick was not achieved in this over as Deepti Sharma did not allow herself to be dismissed.

Ranavere's influence and future

Her performance was not only crucial for her team, but also highlights the importance of experience and age in women's cricket. Her contribution could play a decisive role in Sri Lanka's victory in the World Cup. Ranawere proved that with experience and strategy, young players can be challenged, as can experienced players.