Mohali, Sep 14 (UNI) Australia’s women’s cricket team secured a commanding eight-wicket victory over India in the first ODI at the Yadavindra Cricket Stadium in Punjab. Chasing a target of 282, Australia reached the total in just 44.1 overs, powered by standout performances from their top order.
Phoebe Litchfield led the charge with a brisk 88, while Beth Mooney (77) and Annabel Sutherland (54) notched up crucial half-centuries. Captain Alyssa Healy contributed 27, and Ellyse Perry, who retired hurt, added 30. Litchfield’s match-defining knock earned her the Player of the Match award.
India’s bowling effort struggled to contain Australia, with Kranti Gaud and Sneh Rana being the only wicket-takers. Gaud dismissed Healy, conceding 55 runs in 8 overs, while Rana claimed Litchfield’s wicket, giving away 51 runs in 10 overs. Radha Yadav proved expensive, leaking 61 runs in 8 overs at an economy rate of 7.60.
Earlier, opting to bat after winning the toss, India posted 281 in their 50 overs. Openers Smriti Mandhana (58) and Pratika Rawal (64) set a solid foundation with half-centuries, supported by Harleen Deol’s 54. Contributions from Jemimah Rodrigues (18), Richa Ghosh (25), Deepti Sharma (20), and Radha Yadav (19) bolstered the total.
For Australia, Megan Schutt led the bowling with 2 wickets for 45 runs in 7 overs, while Kim Garth, Annabel Sutherland, Alana King, and Tahlia McGrath picked up one wicket each.
Australia’s dominant chase gives them a 1-0 lead in the series, setting the stage for an exciting second ODI.
