(Image Source: AP)
[Saba Sports News] Australia, having faced a rare Test defeat against India just four days prior, showcased their resilience in the first ODI at Wankhede Stadium. Despite India setting their highest ODI total against Australia, the seven-time World Cup champions bounced back impressively. Ellyse Perry, Phoebe Litchfield, and Tahlia McGrath each scored half-centuries, leading Australia to a six-wicket victory.
The match was a tale of individual grit. For India, Jemimah Rodrigues battled dehydration to score 82 off 77 balls, while Pooja Vastrakar’s unbeaten 62 off 46 propelled India to 282/8. In response, despite battling calf cramps, Perry scored a vital 75 off 72 balls. Litchfield (78) and McGrath (68*) continued the momentum, with Australia reaching 285/4, winning 21 balls early.
Australia’s innings faced early disruption with Alyssa Healy’s dismissal, but Perry and Litchfield’s 148-run partnership steadied the ship. Despite physical discomfort, Perry’s aggressive play and Litchfield’s balanced approach were crucial. Post their dismissals, Beth Mooney (42) and McGrath ensured a smooth finish.
India’s fielding was inconsistent, giving away easy boundaries, while Renuka Singh Thakur stood out with bowling figures of 1/30. India’s fielding coach Munish Bali acknowledged the need for improvement in fielding and bowling.
“Australia batted really well, they kept rotating strike and faced less dot balls,” said India’s fielding coach Munish Bali. “We’re playing ODI cricket after a long time, I think we can do better in fielding and bowling. We fielded well in patches today. In the first 25 overs, there were a couple of direct hits, Sneh took a brilliant catch and the energy was there. But we have to be consistent, which is something I’ve told the girls as well. We’ll have to get used to this format quickly.
The match also saw notable individual performances from the Indian side. Saika Ishaque debuted, replacing an unwell Smriti Mandhana. Yastika Bhatia’s 49 and contributions from Richa Ghosh, Deepti Sharma, and Amanjot Kaur were overshadowed by the lack of a firm grip on the game. Jemimah and Pooja’s 68-run partnership was a highlight for India, with Jemimah showing remarkable determination despite physical struggles.
Despite India’s spirited performance, Australia’s formidable batting response ultimately led to their victory.