India Women’s Triumph in England Wasn’t Just a Series Win—It Was a Turning Point in Mindset and Maturity —Dr (HC) Prachetan Potadar

When the final ball was bowled at Lord’s, it wasn’t just the end of a successful tour for India—it felt like the beginning of something far more significant. With a 2-1 ODI series win and a commanding T20I victory, the Indian women’s team didn’t just outplay England in their backyard—they outgrew the self-doubt that has followed them in overseas conditions for far too long.

This tour wasn’t just about cricket. It was about confidence, clarity, and collective growth. From Smriti Mandhana’s sublime strokes to Renuka Thakur’s searing spells, the Women in Blue showed they’re not just here to compete—they’re here to lead.

A Mental Reset: From Hopefuls to Heavyweights

Ever since the heartbreaking 2017 World Cup final at Lord’s, Indian women’s cricket has carried both the pain of that loss and the pressure to ‘finally deliver’. But this time, there was no baggage—just belief.

There was a quiet maturity in every move. The nerves of the past gave way to purpose. And whether it was Harmanpreet’s tactical calm or the sharpness in fielding drills, this squad carried the look of a team that’s no longer waiting for a breakthrough—it’s living it.

ODIs: Mandhana’s Magic and a Middle Order That Meant Business

India took the ODI series 2-1, but it wasn’t just the result that impressed—it was the way they got there.

🔹 Smriti Mandhana’s elegant 124 at The Oval was a masterclass in timing and temperament. Her poise set the tone.

🔹 Jemimah Rodrigues and Deepti Sharma stepped up when needed, building partnerships that rescued and redefined innings.

🔹 Sneh Rana brought balance, delivering with both bat and ball when the pressure was on.

This wasn’t one or two players shining. It was a team clicking when it mattered.

T20I Series: Speed, Spirit and Statement Cricket

If the ODIs showcased strategy, the T20Is brought out India’s swagger. Taking the series 2-1, they played with a freedom that’s been missing in past tours.

🔹 First T20I: Intent from the Start:

Chasing 160, Shafali Verma smashed 62 off 38, setting the pace early. Richa Ghosh’s calm finish proved she’s more than a big-hitter—she’s a pressure player.

🔹 Second T20I: England Hit Back:

Nat Sciver-Brunt and Ecclestone helped England edge a 9-run win. But India stayed in the game till the final over—showing their fight wasn’t form-based, but rooted in mindset.

🔹 Third T20I: Renuka Leads the Charge:

With the series on the line, Renuka Thakur delivered a dream spell, dismissing both English openers early. Her rhythm, control and sheer will helped India defend 142 with conviction. Pooja Vastrakar backed her up brilliantly at the death.

🔹What stood out in the T20Is:

India’s bench strength stepped up.

Bowlers adapted to conditions.

There was intent in every over—not just from the top order, but the full XI.

Smriti Mandhana: Leading With Elegance and Experience

Smriti’s presence at the crease is almost meditative. She doesn’t just score runs—she builds innings that give others the space to express themselves. At 28, she’s not just a star batter—she’s a stabilising force.

Her performances on this tour reminded the world that flair, when paired with focus, can lead to formidable results.

Renuka Thakur: India’s New-Ball Beacon

Renuka isn’t just filling Jhulan Goswami’s shoes—she’s sprinting in them. Her ability to swing the ball both ways, especially in English conditions, proved vital. Every early wicket felt like a blow to England’s momentum—and a lift for her team.

She bowled with the kind of control that wins matches—not just moments.

England Fought Back—but India Had the Final Word

This wasn’t a case of England underperforming. Sciver-Brunt, Ecclestone, and Capsey all had their moments. But India was sharper, hungrier, and more consistent.

What used to be matches lost in the final overs are now being won with clarity and calmness.

Behind the Scenes: Amol Muzumdar’s Quiet Revolution

India’s head coach, Amol Muzumdar, deserves real credit. He’s brought structure without stifling creativity, and accountability without anxiety.

His rotation policy kept the squad fresh and gave opportunities to emerging names like Harleen Deol and Amanjot Kaur. There’s a system in place—and the players believe in it.

More Than a Tour—A Template for the Future

This wasn’t just about silverware. This was about setting standards. The message is clear: India is building not just a team—but a legacy.

💠 ODI wins built on structure and stamina

💠 T20I wins built on spark and squad depth

💠 Team culture built on trust and transformation

The Final Word

This wasn’t just a tour win. It was a statement: India is no longer chasing validation. They’ve arrived.

For England, it’s a reminder that heritage needs adaptation. For fans, it’s proof that women’s cricket is no longer a sideshow—it’s a centrepiece.

And for the Indian dressing room, it’s confirmation that they’re not just here to play anymore. They’re here to win. Everywhere. Every format. Every time.

About the Author

Dr (HC) Prachetan Potadar is a multi-award-winning media strategist, creative consultant, and keynote speaker. With doctorates in Media Management and a background in engineering, he offers unique insights into the intersections of sport, culture, and storytelling.

A partner in multiple TEDx platforms, Dr Potadar curates conversations that shape narratives beyond the scoreboard. Known as #PenPaperPrachetan, his published work brings together creative thought, cultural nuance, and a love for the game.

Whether analysing advertising campaigns or a comeback stories from the games, he writes with a rare blend of heart, humour, and honest reflection.