In the third ODI between Australia and India at the Wankhede Stadium, Phoebe Litchfield and Alyssa Healy showcased their batting prowess, propelling Australia to a formidable total of 338 for 7. The duo dominated the Indian bowlers, sharing a remarkable opening partnership of 189 runs – the highest against India in this format.
Phoebe Litchfield, known for her left-handed elegance, displayed her effortless batting style, scoring a classy hundred. Her footwork was precise and crisp, evident in her smooth strokes and impeccable timing. This innings was particularly impressive as she made 119 off 125 balls, featuring 16 boundaries and one six. Litchfield’s solid technique and proactive approach allowed her to dominate the Indian spinners, making a strong statement in her first tour to India.
On the other hand, Alyssa Healy, who also took on the role of captain for this tour, played a crucial innings of 82. After a lean run in 2023, where she struggled to cross the fifty-run mark in ODIs, Healy found her form and started positively in this match. She comfortably found the gaps in the field and executed lofted shots when the fielders were in the ring. Her innings not only provided stability to the Australian batting line-up but also marked her first half-century as full-time captain. Additionally, Healy’s 82 is now the highest individual score by a wicketkeeper-captain in women’s ODIs.
The opening pair targeted debutant left-arm spinner Mannat Kashyap, who replaced allrounder Sneh Rana. Healy and Litchfield took advantage of the situation, hitting a six and a four each in Kashyap’s first two overs, conceding 23 runs. However, India managed to bounce back in the 29th over when Pooja Vastrakar dismissed Healy with her short-ball tactics. This wicket slowed down Australia’s scoring rate, and India gained momentum by picking up a few quick wickets.
Shreyanka Patil, the standout bowler for India, picked up two wickets in two balls, dismissing Beth Mooney and Tahlia McGrath. Patil’s variations in pace and tight lines troubled the Australian batters, ending with impressive figures of 3 for 57. Amanjot Kaur also contributed with the ball, taking two wickets, including the crucial dismissal of Ellyse Perry. Despite the setbacks, cameos from Ashleigh Gardner, Georgia Wareham, and Alana King helped Australia surpass the 300-run mark in the death overs.
Unfortunately for India, their fielding performance was subpar, dropping two more catches in this match. This adds to their total of ten dropped catches throughout the series, highlighting an area that needs improvement.
Australia’s commanding total of 338 for 7 sets a challenging target for India in their pursuit of victory. The partnership between Litchfield and Healy, along with contributions from other batters, has given Australia a strong advantage in this crucial match.
As the game progresses, it will be interesting to see how India responds to this formidable total and whether they can mount a successful chase. The third ODI promises an exciting battle between two competitive teams, showcasing the talent and skill of women’s cricket on the international stage.