Rangiora: Star batter Harmanpreet Kaur struck form with a timely hundred as India eked out a narrow two-run victory over South Africa in a warm-up match of the ICC Women's World Cup, in Rangiora, New Zealand, on Sunday.
India's vice-captain, who had regained some form with her first fifty in 12 months during the final ODI against New Zealand, slammed a 119-ball 114, which was laced with 11 boundaries.
The innings should calm the nerves of the team management as she remains a key player for India's World Cup campaign.
India, however, suffered an injury scare during the game when star opener Smriti Mandhana (12) was struck on the head by a bouncer from Shabnim Ismail and was forced to retire hurt.
Opening the innings, Yastika Bhatia gained rhythm ahead of the tournament proper with a 78-ball 58 but the team did not get the impetus in the final overs and ended up with 244 for 9 after being invited to bat first.
Defending the total, Rajeshwari Gayakwad (4/46) returned a four-wicket haul to end South Africa's challenge at 242 for 7, despite some good work from opener Laura Wolvaardt (75), Sune Luus (94) and Marizanne Kapp (31).
Ayabonga Khaka (3/23) was South Africa's most successful bowler.
Brief scores: India 244 for 9 in 50 overs (Harmanpreet Kaur 114, Yastika Bhatia 58; Ayabonga Khaka 3/23) vs South Africa 242 for 7 in 50 overs (Laura Wolvaardt 75, Sune Luus 94; Rajeshwari Gayakwad 4/46).
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