Visakhapatnam: Captain Alyssa Healy‘s epic century (142) powered Australia to the highest successful run chase in Women’s World Cup history, handing host nation India a heartbreaking 3-wicket defeat in a thrilling encounter. Despite Smriti Mandhana‘s world records and India posting their highest-ever World Cup total of 330, the team’s bowling attack once again failed to defend the score leaving thousands of fans at the packed Vizag stadium disappointed.
Where Did Team India Go Wrong?
This is the second consecutive match where the Indian team has failed to defend a large total raising serious questions about the team’s strategy.
- The Five-Bowler Strategy Failed: The team management’s decision to play only five specialist bowlers backfired spectacularly. Apart from the impressive left-arm spinner N Shree Charani (3/41), no other bowler could contain the Australian batters, especially Healy. When the main bowlers proved expensive, Captain Harmanpreet Kaur had no sixth option to turn to.
- Failure to Convert Starts: While Australian captain Healy converted her magnificent start into a match-winning century (142), both of India’s openers Smriti Mandhana (80) and Pratika Rawal (75) fell short of a hundred. The match proved how crucial it is for one set batter to bat through the innings in big games.
- The Batting Collapse: At one stage, India was cruising at 192 for just 1 wicket, looking set for a total of 350-370. However the team lost its last 9 wickets for just 138 runs. Failing to play out the full 50 overs and ending up 20-30 runs short was ultimately a major factor in the loss.
Australia’s ‘Champion’ Spirit
Chasing a mammoth target of 331, Australia showcased their champion character. Captain Alyssa Healy attacked the Indian bowlers from the outset, completing her brilliant century in just 84 balls. She was well-supported by Ashleigh Gardner (45).
The most dramatic moment of the chase came when Ellyse Perry (47)* had to retire hurt due to cramps. India sensed an opportunity with a few quick wickets, but Perry bravely returned to the crease in pain stitching together a crucial partnership with Kim Garth to see her team home with 6 balls to spare.
Mandhana’s Records Go in Vain
The defeat also overshadowed the historic achievements of Smriti Mandhana. During her innings, she became the first woman cricketer to score 1000 runs in a calendar year and the fastest woman to reach 5000 runs in ODIs.
With this loss, India’s path to the World Cup semi-finals has become difficult. They face a must-win game against England next, where the team will need to make immediate improvements to their bowling and overall strategy.
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