Smriti Mandhana’s fireworks illuminated Adelaide Oval as India women seized a dramatic 2-1 T20 series victory against Australia, their first such series win on these shores in 10 years. The emphatic 17-run triumph in the decider propels India confidently into the ODI phase.
Opting to bat, India amassed 176/6 in 20 overs. Mandhana’s 82 off 55 balls, adorned with 3 sixes and 8 fours, was the standout performance. Jemimah Rodrigues’ 59, including 4 fours, bolstered the innings against a probing Australian attack led by Annabel Sutherland’s 4 wickets.
Australia’s chase unraveled at 159/9. Gardner’s 57 off 45 with 6 boundaries offered hope, and Litchfield’s 26 helped, but Patil and Charani’s 3-wicket spells each dismantled the lineup.
The BCCI Secretary took to X to praise the side: ‘Kudos to Indian women for 2-1 T20 series win Down Under. Superb approach and a perfect launch to the tour. On to ODIs!’
Recapping the series, India stole the opener by 21 runs (DLS), bounced back from a 19-run loss in the second. This result, rare in Australia’s fortress, highlights tactical maturity and individual brilliance.
As the multi-format tour continues with ODIs starting February 24, India’s women have reignited hopes of a clean sweep, drawing parallels to their 2012 heroics. The blend of aggressive batting and cunning bowling promises more excitement ahead.