Australia pulled off one of the most remarkable victories in women’s ODI history, chasing down a massive 331-run target to defeat India by three wickets in Visakhapatnam. The win not only marked Australia’s third triumph in four matches of the ongoing Women’s World Cup but also etched their name into the record books with the highest successful run chase in women’s ODI cricket.
The hero of the day was Alyssa Healy, whose sensational 142 anchored Australia’s chase. Her innings was a masterclass in controlled aggression and resilience, guiding her side through moments of pressure and fatigue. Supported ably by Ellyse Perry, who returned bravely after a bout of cramps to remain unbeaten on 47, Australia reached the target with six balls to spare. The duo’s determination broke Indian hearts and silenced a packed home crowd that had expected a second win for the hosts.
India, batting first, posted a formidable 330 all out, thanks to Smriti Mandhana’s fluent 80 and Pratika Rawal’s steady 75. The pair added 155 runs for the opening wicket, laying the perfect platform for a huge total. However, what looked like a 350-plus score quickly slipped away when the middle order faltered and Annabel Sutherland’s clever variations triggered a dramatic collapse. India lost their last nine wickets for just 138 runs, leaving valuable runs on the table. Sutherland finished with a career-best 5 for 40, celebrating her birthday in style.
In reply, Australia began cautiously, scoring just 25 runs in the first five overs before shifting gears dramatically. Healy’s blistering stroke play dismantled the Indian bowling attack, particularly targeting pacer Kranti Gaud, who conceded 73 runs in nine overs. Partnered by Phoebe Litchfield, Healy added 85 for the opening stand before Litchfield fell attempting a reverse sweep off left-arm spinner N Shree Charani.
Healy continued her dominance, racing to her century off 84 balls, striking 21 boundaries and three sixes. Even as wickets fell around her—Beth Mooney, Sutherland, and Ash Gardner departing in quick succession—Healy maintained control of the chase. Her dismissal, caught at point off a mistimed drive, briefly raised India’s hopes, but Perry’s return ensured there was no late twist.
Battling cramps, Perry displayed immense composure in the closing stages. Alongside Kim Garth, who contributed an unbeaten 14, she stitched together a vital 28-run stand that carried Australia home. Garth’s audacious reverse-paddle in the penultimate over exemplified Australia’s fearless approach as they sealed victory with an over to spare.
For India, N Shree Charani was the standout bowler, finishing with figures of 3 for 41, while the rest of the attack struggled. The decision to go with only five specialist bowlers backfired as the team lacked options when pressure mounted. Sneh Rana, usually a reliable performer, conceded 85 runs in her ten overs, and the lack of support for Charani proved costly.
India’s batting had its positives. Mandhana’s innings saw her become the first woman to score over 1000 ODI runs in a calendar year and the fastest to reach 5000 ODI runs. Rawal’s measured approach complemented her perfectly, but the inability of the middle order to convert starts into big scores once again hurt India. Richa Ghosh, who had rescued India in the previous match, fell cheaply this time, as Sutherland’s clever slower ball undid her.
The defeat leaves India with much to ponder. Despite showing intent with the bat, their bowling combinations and death-overs execution remain concerning. The loss also extended India’s winless streak against major teams like South Africa, England, New Zealand, and Australia in ICC events over the past five years.
For Australia, however, this victory reaffirms their status as the benchmark in women’s cricket. Healy’s leadership and innings of substance, combined with Perry’s grit and Sutherland’s all-round brilliance, underline the depth and resilience that define this side. As the tournament heads into its second half, Australia sit comfortably atop the points table, while India face a crucial test against England in Indore next week.
