NAVI MUMBAI: It has been less than a year since they joined forces, but India openers Smriti Mandhana and Pratika Rawal have forged an extremely successful partnership at the top.

On Thursday, the pair's batting prowess was once again on show as they set the platform for the team's semifinal qualification in the Women's World Cup with a record 212-run partnership.

India vice-captain Mandhana and Rawal put the New Zealand bowling attack to the sword, smashing fine centuries to set up a 53-run win (DLS Method) in a rain-affected game.

This was their seventh century stand and fifth in 2025 since they paired in December last year.

Mandhana's 95-ball 105 and Rawal's 122 from 134 deliveries powered India to a massive 340/3 — the highest total by any team in this World Cup — as India crushed

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