Xtra Time Web Desk: A fine effort from captain Mithali Raj (79) went in vain as India women lost to South Africa women by 5 wickets in the fifth and final ODI of the series. The Proteas women clinched the series by a comprehensive 4-1 margin.
Defending 188, spinner Rajeshwari Gayakwad provided an ideal start to the hosts as she dismissed Laura Wolvaardt (0) and Lara Goodall (1) in quick succession. Skipper Sune Luus and Mignon formed a 24-run stand for the third wicket, but the partnership was cut short by Dayalan Hemalatha in the 11th over, reducing Proteas to 27/3. But Anne Bosch (58) and Mignon de Preez (57) played stellar knocks. They shared a 96 runs partnership for the fourth wicket. Marizanne Kapp (36*) and Nadine de Klerk (19*) ensured that the visitors did not suffer any more hiccups and Proteas recorded a victory by five wickets with 10 balls to spare.
Earlier, skipper Mithali Raj played a lone hand with a knock of 79 as India posted 188/9.
The two teams will next face each other in the T20I series at the same venue.