The third T20I between India Women and Australia Women exploded into life at Adelaide, where Smriti Mandhana’s near-century propelled India to 176 for 6. After calling right at the toss and batting first, India now eye a series-clinching win with Australia needing 177 to triumph.
A top-order collapse loomed as Shafali Verma holed out for 7 at 19 runs. But Mandhana (82 off 55, 8×4, 3×6) and Jemimah Rodrigues (59 off 46, 4×4) countered brilliantly, adding 121 for the second wicket and resurrecting the innings.
Post-Mandhana’s exit, Rodrigues fell soon after, but Richa Ghosh blazed 18 off 7. The finish turned chaotic with run-outs claiming two in the final over, leaving skipper Harmanpreet Kaur not out on 2. Sutherland starred with 2/?? for Australia; Garth and Molineux took one each.
Milestone moment for Ellyse Perry: her 350th int’l match, eclipsing all Australian women ahead of Alyssa Healy’s 295. Level 1-1 entering this finale, India draws confidence from their 2-1 series victory in Australia back in 2015-16. Expect a fierce chase under lights as both sides vie for glory.