Harmanpreet Kaur Smashes Stunning Century Against Zimbabwe Despite Fever

Former India captain Harmanpreet Kaur delivered a remarkable batting performance against Zimbabwe, scoring 126 runs off 121 balls despite suffering from a fever the night before the match. After India lost two wickets for just 19 runs, Harmanpreet walked in to bat during the third over and stayed at the crease for nearly 43 overs. She reportedly took medication and painkillers to manage her symptoms before taking the field. Reflecting on her century, Harmanpreet said she thoroughly enjoyed her innings and felt that the experience helped her forget her discomfort. She added that her focus was on enjoying batting, respecting good deliveries and capitalising on loose balls. She also said she was approaching the game with renewed energy and concentrating on adapting to the match situation rather than worrying about other matters.

Harmanpreet explained that batting first under the hot sun made the challenge more demanding, and she struggled while fielding because of her illness. However, she said the medication helped her get through the match. India captain Smriti Mandhana credited Harmanpreet, Pratika Rawal and Deepti Sharma for the team's performance. She highlighted Harmanpreet's contribution in stabilising the innings after the early setbacks and praised the partnerships built with Pratika and Deepti. Mandhana also lauded Deepti for making the most of her opportunity despite often batting lower down the order. She added that India's bowlers did an effective job of restricting Zimbabwe. The match also marked Mandhana's first ODI series as India's full-time captain.