Australia’s clinical performance overshadowed India’s efforts in the series opener, securing a six-wicket win while chasing 215 in a brisk 38.2 overs at Allan Border Field.
Deputy skipper Smriti Mandhana, at the helm due to Harmanpreet Kaur’s injury, dissected the loss. ‘Two early blows set us back. We pushed for a comeback, but the wicket surprised us,’ she admitted.
Kaur’s knee issue flared up mid-innings, ruling her out of fielding. Optimism prevails for her fitness, per Mandhana.
Firm on team selection, Mandhana declared, ‘No knee-jerk reactions after one loss. We’re in good shape.’
India’s innings ended at 214 after electing to bat first. Standout efforts came from Mandhana (58), Kaur (53 off 84), Gautam (43), and Ghosh (23).
Beth Mooney’s 76 from 79 deliveries and Alyssa Healy’s 50 off 70 propelled Australia home comfortably.
Mandhana highlighted batting unity as key. ‘Against their bowlers, we faltered individually. Time to bat as a cohesive unit for stronger totals.’
The loss serves as a wake-up call, with India eyeing redemption in the next encounter.