Alyssa Healy’s stunning 142 not out has led Australia to a thrilling three-wicket victory over India in the ICC Women’s World Cup, setting a new record for the highest successful run chase in women’s one-day international history. The match took place in Visakhapatnam, where India posted a challenging total of 330 runs in 48.5 overs, thanks in large part to a strong opening partnership between Smriti Mandhana and Pratika Rawal, who put on 155 runs. Mandhana was the standout performer with a quickfire 80 off 66 balls, supported by contributions from the middle order.
Australia’s Annabel Sutherland turned the tide with a remarkable 5-40 bowling performance, but it was Healy’s masterclass with the bat that stole the show. The Australian captain’s unbeaten century off just 106 balls included 21 fours and three sixes, guiding her team to victory in a nail-biting finish. Healy’s partnership with Ash Gardner and Ellyse Perry proved crucial in reaching the target with just six balls to spare, securing a historic win for Australia.
Healy’s exceptional display of skill and composure under pressure was the highlight of the match, with her ability to read the game and execute shots on both sides of the wicket proving instrumental in Australia’s record-breaking chase. The 35-year-old’s century marked a significant moment in her career, showcasing her capacity to deliver in high-pressure situations. With Healy leading from the front, Australia looks poised for a strong showing in the rest of the tournament, despite a few areas that need fine-tuning.
In contrast, India’s batting fireworks fizzled out towards the end, as they fell short of setting a more challenging target for Australia. Mandhana and Rawal’s explosive start was followed by a middle-order collapse, with the last four wickets falling for just 10 runs. Despite spirited performances from Jemimah Rodrigues and Richa Ghosh, India’s inability to capitalize on their strong start ultimately cost them the match. The team will need to reassess their bowling strategy and strengthen their middle order if they hope to bounce back in the competition.
Australia captain Alyssa Healy expressed pride in her team’s performance, highlighting the depth of their batting lineup and the resilience of their bowlers. She emphasized the importance of confidence in chasing down a formidable total like 330, signaling Australia’s readiness to face similar challenges in the future. On the other hand, India captain Harmanpret Kaur acknowledged the team’s shortcomings in failing to capitalize on the batting-friendly conditions, hinting at potential changes in their bowling lineup for upcoming matches. As both teams reflect on their performances, the stage is set for an exciting journey ahead in the Women’s World Cup.
