Australia Dominates India in First Women's ODI Ahead of World Cup

Australia Dominates India in First ODI, Litchfield and Mooney Shine

Australia delivered a resounding victory against India in the first one-day international, winning by eight wickets. The match, part of a three-match series leading up to the Women's World Cup, saw Australia chase down India's total comfortably in New Chandigarh.

India's Promising Start Falls Short

India, co-hosting the upcoming Women's World Cup with Sri Lanka, posted a competitive 281-7. The top order, featuring Pratika Rawal, Smriti Mandhana, and Harleen Deol, all achieved half-centuries, with an opening partnership of 114. However, none of the batters were able to convert their starts into substantial scores, which ultimately proved costly. The Indian batters suffered from a slow strike rate that piled pressure on the middle order.

Australian Batting Prowess Overwhelms India

Australia's chase was anchored by a brilliant innings from Phoebe Litchfield, who scored 88 off 80 balls, including 14 fours. Despite losing captain Alyssa Healy early for 27, Litchfield maintained her excellent form. A minor concern arose when Ellyse Perry retired hurt on 30 after bowling only three overs. However, Beth Mooney (77 not out from 74 balls) and Annabel Sutherland (54 not out from 51 balls) ensured a comfortable victory, adding an unbroken 116-run partnership for the third wicket. Megan Schutt was the pick of the Australian bowlers with 2-45 in her 100th ODI.

Second ODI and World Cup Preparations

The second ODI will be held at the same venue on Wednesday. This match is crucial for India to level the series and gain momentum before the World Cup. The Women's World Cup begins with India facing Sri Lanka, while Australia will begin their title defence against New Zealand on October 1.

Live Streaming Details for the Second ODI

With the series on the line, the second ODI between India Women (IND-W) and Australia Women (AUS-W) promises to be a tightly contested affair at the Maharaja Yadavindra Singh International Cricket Stadium in Mullanpur (New Chandigarh). After a dominant performance in the first ODI, Australia will aim to seal the series. India, led by Harmanpreet Kaur, will be seeking a quick turnaround ahead of the 2025 ICC Women’s World Cup.