Drama unfolded at the Gabba as the Australia-India women’s ODI series launched Tuesday. Captain Alyssa Healy revealed pre-match that Ellyse Perry and Kim Garth won’t feature due to quad strains from the third T20I. Garth’s exit was confirmed post-Monday scans, with Perry’s Test hopes resting on recovery.
Replacements Megan Schutt and Lucy Hamilton bring pace and promise. Schutt’s comeback is a game-changer for the bowling unit. India, toss winners, opted to set a target, channeling T20I success and post-2025 World Cup confidence into the longer format.
Australia’s ODI legacy is unmatched—seven World Cup titles and dominance over India—but these setbacks sting. India, playing their first ODI since World Cup glory, senses opportunity for a historic series grab under Harmanpreet Kaur.
This opener shapes the narrative. Gabba’s lively surface favors pace, potentially exposing Australia’s depleted attack. Can India build big or will the hosts fight back? The series promises edge-of-seat cricket as the first ball is bowled.