Australia edged past India Women in a thrilling ODI as they chased down 252 runs, winning by five wickets. India posted 251/9, anchored by Harmanpreet Kaur’s 54, but Australia’s steady chase led by Ashleigh Gardner’s 68 and Alyssa Healy’s unbeaten 45 secured the series‑deciding victory. The win gave Australia a 5‑4 lead in the eight‑match multi‑format series and shifted momentum ahead of the final T20I.
India’s Batting Performance
The Indian side chose to bat first at Bellerive Oval and built a competitive total of 251/9 in 50 overs.
- Openers: Shafali Verma and Smriti Mandhana added a 78‑run partnership before Verma was dismissed.
- Mandhana: Scored 48 before falling to Megan Schutt.
- Harmanpreet Kaur: Entered at 115/2 and struck 54 off 42 balls, including four fours and three sixes, pushing the score past 200.
- Deepti Sharma: Contributed a quick‑fire 32, supporting Kaur’s surge.
Australia’s Chase Strategy
Australia approached the target methodically, balancing aggression with stability.
- Openers: Alyssa Healy and Beth Mooney each made 27, laying a solid foundation.
- Ashleigh Gardner: Accelerated the innings with 68 off 55 balls, hitting six fours and five sixes.
- Middle Order: Healy remained unbeaten on 45, while rookie Richa Ghosh added 22 off 13 balls.
- Finish: Australia reached 252/5 with five wickets in hand, sealing the win with a boundary from Healy.
Series Context and Implications
The match was the second ODI of an eight‑match multi‑format series (three Tests, three ODIs, two T20Is) introduced by the ICC to reward consistency across formats. After four matches, both teams were tied at four points each, making this ODI a de facto series decider. Australia’s victory moved them ahead 5‑4 on the points table and gave them a psychological edge heading into the final T20I.
Key Takeaways
- Harmanpreet’s Consistency: Her back‑to‑back half‑centuries underline her role as India’s batting anchor.
- Australian Depth: Strong contributions from Gardner and the lower order highlight bench strength.
- Bowling Adjustments Needed: India must improve death‑over variations to contain aggressive chases.
- Fielding Impact: High‑quality catches and run‑outs shifted momentum throughout the match.
Coach’s Insight
Ramesh Powar, India Women’s Head Coach: “We were pleased with the platform Harmanpreet set; her innings gave us a competitive total. However, the chase exposed gaps in our death‑over execution. We need to refine our variations, especially slower balls and yorkers, to curb the aggressive intent of batters like Gardner. The series is still open, and the T20I will be a chance to reset.”
Looking Ahead
The final T20I at Adelaide Oval promises an intense showdown. India must capitalize on Harmanpreet’s form and tighten their bowling strategies, while Australia will aim to leverage their confidence and depth to clinch the inaugural multi‑format series title.
