Mooney Hits 138 as Australia Pile 412 to Crush India in Delhi ODI

Beth Mooney’s scintillating 138 off 79 balls propelled Australia to a record-breaking 412 all out against India in the series-deciding third women’s ODI at the Kotla, matching their joint-highest innings total set against Denmark in 1997. The colossal score also surpassed Australia’s previous record of 371/8 against India in Brisbane last year, marking the highest-ever total against the hosts.

Electing to bat on a flat Delhi pitch, Australia’s innings was a display of relentless aggression, with 270 runs coming from 60 fours and five sixes. Mooney’s whirlwind knock, featuring 23 fours and a six, dominated the middle overs, while opener Georgia Voll (81), Ellyse Perry (68), and captain Alyssa Healy (30) set a fiery tone early on. India’s bowling attack struggled, with inconsistent lengths and fielding lapses, including dropped catches and misfields, compounding their woes despite occasional moments of brilliance.

Healy’s aggressive start against new-ball bowlers Renuka Thakur and Kranti Goud saw her smash seven boundaries before Goud dismissed her for the third time in the series. Voll and Perry then forged a 107-run partnership, capitalizing on India’s wayward bowling. Sneh Rana provided a breakthrough by dismissing Voll, who edged a sweeping shot to short fine leg. However, Mooney’s authoritative batting, with precise sweeps, cuts, and lofts, dismantled India’s spinners and pacers alike, ensuring Australia maintained their dominance.

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A late fightback came via Deepti Sharma’s crafty 45th over, which triggered a mini-collapse with three wickets, including Mooney’s run-out. Despite India’s efforts to claw back in the final overs, Australia’s mammoth total left them in a commanding position, setting a daunting challenge for the hosts in this crucial decider.

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