Ahmedabad, Oct 27 (Reporter) New Zealand Women secured a commanding victory over India, winning the second ODI of the series by 76 runs on Sunday. India had previously claimed the first match by 59 runs Set a challenging target of 260 runs, India faltered in their pursuit, particularly against New Zealand's new-ball attack. Jess Kerr and Lea Tahuhu delivered early blows, leaving India struggling to find their footing. Despite a promising partnership between Harmanpreet Kaur (24) and Jemimah Rodrigues (17), who seemed to be building a recovery, Sophie Devine struck again with the ball, dismissing both batswomen to tilt the match firmly in New Zealand's favour. Just when it seemed that India might capitulate meekly, Radha Yadav (48) and Saima Thakor forged a 70-run partnership. Their collaboration offered a glimmer of hope, but Kerr and Devine returned to dismantle the tail, enabling New Zealand to wrap up the match comfortably. Earlier, New Zealand Women put up a competitive total of 259 for 9 in their 50 overs. The innings was built on a solid opening partnership of 87 runs between Suzie Bates and Lauren Plimmer. Bates reached her half-century before India’s Deepti Sharma claimed the initial breakthrough. India briefly seized control, claiming three wickets for just 41 runs, but the momentum shifted once more as Devine unleashed an aggressive counterattack, forming an 82-run partnership with Amelia Kerr. India's fielding, highlighted by Radha Yadav's spectacular stops and catches, played a crucial role in containing New Zealand's scoring towards the end. Despite Deepti Sharma missing several opportunities, Jemimah Rodrigues' stunning catch helped limit the Kiwis as they sought boundaries in the final overs. With the series now level, India will need to regroup and devise a strategic approach for the next encounter. The focus will be on sharpening their batting against New Zealand's potent bowling attack as they prepare for the decisive match. The next game promises to be a thrilling contest, with both teams eager to claim victory and secure the series...////...