Australia women scripted a thrilling chase to beat India by 5 wickets in the second ODI at Hobart, forging ahead 2-0 in the series that now looks one-sided. The 252-run pursuit was achieved at 252/5 in 36.1 overs despite an early blow.
Healy’s farewell knock ended at 6, but Litchfield (80 off 62) and Wareham (101 off 82) forged partnerships of 119 and 82 respectively with Mooney (31). The lower order mopped up efficiently.
Bowling efforts from Gautam (2/), Deepti (2/), and Gaud (1/) kept Australia honest. India’s 251/9 came after a promising start dissolved into middle-order woes. Mandhana-Rawal’s 78 dissolved quickly, followed by Rodrigues (11), Rawal (52), Deepti (1).
Harmanpreet’s 54 off 70 was the standout, pushing the score with Ghosh (22), others adding crucial runs. Australia’s bowlers, spearheaded by three two-wicket hauls from Gardner, King, Sutherland, plus Schutt and Carey, restricted effectively.
The dead rubber third ODI looms on March 1, but Australia’s series victory is sealed.