HOBART: Facing an uphill battle in the ODI series, Indian women’s captain Harmanpreet Kaur won the toss in the second match against Australia and opted to set a target first at Ninja Stadium. This strategic move underscores India’s intent to recover from a six-wicket defeat in the opener, where they were bowled out for 214.
The Brisbane loss highlighted top-order woes, with openers Prathika Raval ducking out and Shafali Verma scoring a mere four, while Jemimah Rodrigues added just eight. A collective effort from the top is essential for a competitive score. Smriti Mandhana and Harmanpreet Kaur, with their experience, are primed to lead the charge and build partnerships.
A major talking point is the international debut of promising left-arm spinner Vaishnavi Sharma, aged 20. Her addition strengthens an already potent bowling lineup, offering options to control Australia’s chase.
Australia, holding a 1-0 advantage, brings firepower with Alyssa Healy’s captaincy, explosive batting from Georgia Voll and Beth Mooney, and depth in bowling led by Megan Schutt and Darcie Brown. Victory here would clinch the series for them.
India Team: Smriti Mandhana, Prathika Raval, Harmanpreet Kaur (C), Jemimah Rodrigues, Richa Ghosh (WK), Deepti Sharma, Amanjot Kaur, Kashvee Gautam, Kranti Gaud, Vaishnavi Sharma, Sree Charani.
Australia Team: Alyssa Healy (C), Phoebe Litchfield, Georgia Voll, Beth Mooney (WK), Annabel Sutherland, Ashley Gardner, Tahlia McGrath, Nicola Carey, Alana King, Megan Schutt, Darcie Brown.
India’s performance today could define their series fate – a high total might just spark a comeback.