India Women vs New Zealand Women: Live Updates and Key Highlights from the 1st ODI

The first ODI of the three-match series between India Women and New Zealand Women is underway at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad. India, led by Smriti Mandhana in the absence of Harmanpreet Kaur due to a niggle, won the toss and elected to bat first.

Smriti Mandhana and Shafali Verma opened the innings for India, with Mandhana departing early for just 12 runs. Shafali Verma and Yastika Bhatia were at the crease, trying to stabilize the Indian innings. At the latest update, India was at 49/1 after 6 overs, with Shafali Verma scoring 33 runs and Yastika Bhatia on 8 runs.

This series marks a significant challenge for both teams, especially for New Zealand, who are fresh from their T20 World Cup victory. The White Ferns, led by Sophie Devine, are looking to continue their winning streak, while India aims to bounce back from a disappointing T20 World Cup campaign.

The match also sees the debut of two Indian players, Saima Thakor and Tejal Hasabnis, adding a new dimension to the Indian squad. The series is crucial for both teams as they prepare for the upcoming Women's Cricket World Cup in India next year.

The head-to-head record favors New Zealand, with 33 wins out of 54 matches against India. However, India has been in good form in ODIs recently, having won a series against South Africa in June.

The match is being broadcast live on Sports18 2 channel in India and can be streamed on the JioCinema app and website.