Aussie Women Sports Triumph

Australia’s opening pair, Healy and Mooney, showcased a dominant performance against India in the third T20I, scoring 85 runs for the opening wicket. Racing to 54 for no loss in the Powerplay, Healy struck boundaries and a six, reaching her half-century. Captain Healy scored 55 off 38 balls, while Mooney remained unbeaten on 52 off 45 balls. Despite Pooja Vastrakar’s two late wickets, Australia secured victory with Mooney’s boundaries in the 19th over, winning the series 2-1.

India’s innings saw starts from Shafali Verma, Smriti Mandhana, and Richa Ghosh, but they couldn’t convert into substantial scores. Shafali’s aggressive 26 off 17 balls provided a brisk start, but Megan Schutt dismissed her. India lost quick wickets, and although Richa Ghosh’s 34 revived the innings, the team managed 147/6 in 20 overs. Unfortunately, their bowlers couldn’t trouble Australia, resulting in India’s defeat.

The series, crucial for both teams, showcased India’s inconsistency in white-ball matches. With back-to-back multi-format series wins against Australia and England in the Test format, India faced challenges in the limited-overs formats. The T20 World Cup in Bangladesh looms, and the team management must address issues to prepare for the upcoming mega event.

Australia’s clinical bowling performance in the decisive T20I secured their series victory, marking a successful tour for the visitors. Healy’s notable innings, supported by Mooney, set the stage for Australia’s triumph, highlighting their dominance in the limited-overs format. The Indian team, despite glimpses of brilliance, faces areas of improvement ahead of the T20 World Cup, emphasizing the need for strategic planning and execution in crucial matches.

_{Repurposed article originally published in the Quint}