On a warm evening in Delhi at the Arun Jaitley Stadium , the third and final ODI between Indian Women and Australia Women delivered a match for ages . The series decider saw both sides turn a flat batting track into a spectacle with the nearly 800 runs scored in under 95 overs Australia batted first and posted a colossal 412/10 in 47.5 overs leaving India with a mountain to climb . Despite Smriti Mandhana’s record breaking knock and spirted chase Australia held their nerve to secure a 43 run victory and seal the series 2-1 continuing their unbroken streak against India in bilateral ODIs .
Australia’s Explosive start
Beth Mooney the eventual Player of the match led from the front smashing a scintillating hundred off 57 balls. Supported by Georgia Voll and Ellyse Perry , Australia kept the scoreboard ticking at one stage eyeing 450. Although a late order collapse slowed their momentum their total of 412 was more than enough to challenge the Indian batting line up . The visitors approach was clear attack relentlessly build partnerships and put India under pressure from the start .
Smriti Mandhana’s Record Breaking Blaze
India’s response began with a flurry of boundaries from Smriti Mandhana who went on to smash the fastest ODI hundred by an Indian . Alongside captain Harmanpreet Kaur , Mandhana kept India in the hunt brining the score to 206 / 2 in just 20 overs . Fans sensed a historic chase was on as they required run rate dipped below seven and the momentum appeared to be firmly in India’s favor.
The Turing Point
The match turned in the middle overs . Kim Garth struck twice in quick succession , dismissing both Mandhana and Harmpreet Kaur . India collapsed from 261/ 2 to 261/6 losing crucial momentum . Deepti Sharma and Sneh Rana tried to stabilize the innings with quickfire contributions but Australia’s disciplined bowling and sharp fielding ensured the visitors remained ahead , ultimately defending 412 with composure.
Australia’s Relentless Mentality
Captain Alyssa Healy praised her team’s mindset , saying they approached the match like a T20 in planning and execution . You can’t defend a World cup , you have to win it she noted highlighting her side’s readiness for the upcoming ICC Women’s World cup.
India’s Takeaways
Despite the loss , India showcased fighting spirit . Mandhana’s 300 run series was a standout and Harmanpreet emphasized India’s batting depth . Fielding lapses and a lack of support in the middle overs cost them dearly , but the team walks away with lessons to strengthen their World cup preparations .
Curtain Raiser to the World cup
More than a series decider this thrilling contest showcased Mooney’s power and Mandhana’s brilliance , setting the stage for India’s home World Cup starting in 10 days.
Also Read: IND-W VS AUS-W: Smriti Mandhana’s Majestic Ton Gives India Hope In A Difficult Chase.