(Image Source: PTI)
[Saba Sports News] The Indian Women’s Cricket Team clinched an emphatic eight-wicket victory over Australia on the fourth day of their one-off Test match in Mumbai. Chasing a modest target of 75, India comfortably reached 75/2 in 18.4 overs, propelled by Smriti Mandhana’s unbeaten 38 from 61 balls. Australia, starting their second innings at 261 in response to India’s 406, saw Tahlia McGrath score a half-century, but it was overshadowed by Sneh Rana’s impressive 4/63 bowling figures.
Harmanpreet Kaur and Rajeshwari Gayakwad each took two wickets for India. Reflecting on the win, Mandhana highlighted the manageable nature of the pitch and her partnership strategy with Shafali Verma. Despite Shafali’s early dismissal, Mandhana praised her initial batting.
India had earlier set a strong foundation, dismissing Australia for 219 on the first day and then establishing a 187-run lead, thanks to solid performances from Shafali Verma, Mandhana, Richa Ghosh, Jemimah Rodrigues, Deept Sharma, and Pooja Vastrakar. McGrath’s second fifty of the match brought some resistance from Australia on Day 3, but Harmanpreet’s crucial wickets and a strong team effort on Day 4 morning led India to an easy chase.
Sneh Rana, named Player of the Match, expressed her joy and highlighted the positive team environment. She downplayed dropped catches as a normal part of the game and emphasized the unique experience and impact of playing Test matches in India. Rana’s performance and the team’s victory are seen as significant steps in promoting women’s cricket and attracting new talent.