Australia Dominates India in ODI Warm-Up Before Women's World Cup
Hey everyone, let’s talk about the first of three warm-up one-day internationals between India and Australia ahead of the Women’s Cricket World Cup, because wow—what a game it was! Played in New Chandigarh, this match saw Australia completely take charge, chasing down a hefty target set by India with ease.
India won the toss and chose to bat first, posting a competitive total of 281 for 7 in their allotted 50 overs. It wasn’t a one-sided batting effort by any means. Smriti Mandhana led the way with a well-crafted 58, while Pratika Rawal contributed 64. Harleen Deol also shone with a half-century, coming in at number three after India’s opening pair had put on a 114-run stand. But once Megan Schutt came into the attack, India’s momentum was checked. Schutt, making her 100th ODI appearance, picked up two key wickets, including Deol’s. The lower order added some handy runs—Richa Ghosh scored 25, Radha Yadav 19, and Deepti Sharma remained unbeaten on 25—but it was clear Australia’s bowlers had the game under control.
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Then came Australia’s response, and it was nothing short of spectacular. The spotlight was stolen by Phoebe Litchfield, who top-scored with a boundary-laden 88 off just 80 balls. She struck 14 fours, keeping the scoreboard ticking at a fast pace, and even though she fell 12 runs short of her third ODI century, her innings set the tone for the chase. Beth Mooney and Annabel Sutherland backed her up with unbeaten half-centuries, seeing Australia comfortably past the target. By the time the winning runs were scored, Australia had reached 282 for 2 in 44.1 overs, with six overs and 35 balls to spare—marking the fourth-highest successful chase in women’s ODI history.
Australia’s captain, Alyssa Healy, made a brief but impactful contribution before being dismissed for 27, while Ellyse Perry provided support until she was forced to retire early due to a calf cramp. But the team’s depth shone through, as multiple players stepped up to secure a commanding win. On the bowling front, Australia spread the workload across eight bowlers, with Kim Garth bowling her full quota of 10 overs, signaling that the team is well-prepared for the World Cup opener against New Zealand on October 1 in Indore.
Overall, this match was a thrilling display of Australian dominance and strategic cricket, but it also showed India’s potential, with key players making significant contributions. With two more ODIs scheduled before the Women’s Cricket World Cup begins on September 30, both teams now have a lot to take away and work on. One thing is clear: this series promises high-quality cricket and intense competition as the big tournament approaches.
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