Drama unfolded at the DY Patil Stadium in Navi Mumbai as Smriti Mandhana narrowly escaped what looked like a plumb LBW dismissal during India’s innings against New Zealand in the ICC Women’s World Cup 2025.
In the 29th over, Amelia Kerr floated one on middle with plenty of flight. Mandhana went for a sweep across the line and missed it completely — or so it seemed. The ball struck her pad, and the on-field umpire raised his finger immediately. Mandhana, looking convinced she was out, began walking back toward the pavilion.
However, after a brief discussion, India decided to review the decision. To everyone’s surprise, UltraEdge revealed a faint spike, confirming that Mandhana had indeed got a thin edge on the ball before it hit her pad. The left-hander looked stunned, having almost walked off, while Amelia Kerr threw her hands up in disbelief.
Mandhana, who is batting on 91 off 80 balls, was reprieved and continues to anchor India’s innings alongside Pratika Rawal (75 off 95). The duo has now stitched an unbeaten 181-run opening partnership, putting India in a commanding position at 181/0 in 29 overs.
The lifeline could prove costly for New Zealand, as Mandhana inches closer to a well-deserved century in this must-win encounter for India.
