Mandhana Shines but India Fall Short in Historic World Cup Chase

Australia clinched a thrilling three-wicket victory over India in a high-scoring Women’s World Cup group match on Sunday, successfully chasing a record-breaking 331-run target with one over to spare. Skipper Alyssa Healy’s explosive 142 anchored Australia’s pursuit, while India’s vice-captain Smriti Mandhana made history as the first woman to score 1,000 runs in a calendar year in ODIs, powering India to 330 after Australia opted to bowl first.

Healy’s sixth career hundred, and her first as captain, came off just 84 balls, featuring 21 fours and three sixes. Her aggressive 107-ball knock, which ended with a spectacular one-handed catch by Sneh Rana at 276/5, marked her first ODI century since 2022 and set the stage for Australia’s historic chase—the highest successful run chase in women’s ODI history. Despite losing momentum mid-innings, Australia was steadied by Ellyse Perry, who returned after retiring hurt earlier to finish unbeaten on 47 off 52 balls, guiding her team to victory in 49 overs.

India’s imposing total was built on Mandhana’s record-breaking performance, though her exact score was not disclosed. However, the hosts suffered a dramatic collapse, losing their last six wickets for 36 runs in seven overs, finishing at 330 in 48.5 overs. Australia’s Annabel Sutherland claimed her maiden five-wicket haul (5/40 in 9.5 overs), dismantling India’s lower order, with Sophie Molineux supporting through her 3/75. The collapse exposed vulnerabilities in India’s batting depth, despite their formidable start.

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The match, played in Visakhapatnam, showcased the growing intensity of women’s cricket, with both teams pushing boundaries in batting and strategy. Australia’s victory strengthens their position in the group stage, while India will look to regroup ahead of their next fixture. This encounter, blending individual milestones with team resilience, underscores the competitive spirit of the 2025 Women’s World Cup.

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