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India's women cricketers produced a clinical performance to beat New Zealand by nine wickets in the fifth and final One-Day International in Bengaluru and win the series by a 3-2 margin on Wednesday.
The resounding victory prompted the Board of Control for Cricket in India to announce a cash award of Rs 21 lakh for the team, which fought back valiantly from 1-2 down in the series to emerge triumphant.
The deciding ODI was a tame affair as New Zealand were shot out for 118 in 41 overs, seven of their batsmen failing to get into double digits.
Suzie Bates top-scored with 42 while left-arm spinner Rajeswari Gayekwad had figures of 2 for 15.
Jhulan Goswami, with 2 for 17, was economical as ever and Deepti Sharma took 2 for 22.
In reply, India surpassed the target in 27.2 overs, D T Thirushkamini scoring 62 off 78 balls, inclusive of 13 boundaries.
Deepti showed her all-round prowess, scoring an unbeaten 44. Her 78-ball knock was studded with eight boundaries.
BCCI president Jagmohan Dalmiya said: "Congratulations to our skipper Mithali Raj on leading the team with distinction and registering a series win against New Zealand.
"Team has shown remarkable character to come back from 1-2 to win the series. BCCI would like to announce a reward of Rs 21 lakh for the team."
Secretary Anurag Thakur too congratulated the team.
"On behalf of BCCI, I would like to congratulate the team on the series win. It was a dominant performance today and they deserve all the accolades,” said Thakur.
"This five-match ODI series proved to be competitive and was a wonderful showcase for the skill and class of women's cricket. It augurs well for the future. I would also wish to congratulate Mithali for reaching yet another milestone in her illustrious career of crossing 5000 runs. Well done once again for a stellar performance," he added.
Brief scores:
New Zealand: 118 in 41 overs (Suzie Bates 42, Rajeshwari Gayekwad 2/15, Jhulan Goswami 2/17)
India: 121/1 in 27.2 overs (Thirushkamini 62 no, Deepti Sharma 44 not out).
India won by 9 wickets.
Image: India's players celebrate with the trophy after beating the touring New Zealanders in the final ODI and winning the series.
Photograph: PTI