NEW DELHI: Tejal Hasabnis proved to be an integral part of India’s easy victory against Ireland during the first women’s ODI match by taking home five wickets at Rajkot on Friday.

Paving a way towards India’s target of scoring 239, Hasabnis helped the team settle down on a score of 53 not out on 46 during her innings.

Hitting 9 boundaries, she was able to appear quite calm as she made progress towards her first ever ODI fifty.

Commenting on the victory, she stated, “I felt great as I was able to make a contribution to the victory of my team. There were several elements of the game plan that were rather uncomplicated. For instance, I enjoy chasing after a target.”

Elaborating on the victory, she explained how she had to tweak her strategy around the innings based on the altering circumstances of the game.

She stated ,‘ Anything between 42 to 49, I expected to play one innings. The free hit I hit helped me feel good. However, I was dubious as to what the score might 'allow.' So, I thought, 'I'll see what the score is.'

Her goal is now to attend to the plethora of unfulfilled goals by gaining proper momentum while aiding her team in winning.

She further stated ,‘ Now, it would be nice to keep pushing my average up instead.’

Due to the significant contributions made in India by Pratika Rawal and Tejal Hasabnis, the country was able to take a comfortable 1-0 lead in the ongoing 3 match series.

The match was the very first women’s cricket match played in Rajkot.

Leading up to the match, Sayali Satghare was presented with her cap by the team’s captain, Smriti Mandhana.

The remainder of the series will also be hosted at this venue.”