Under lights at Ninja Cricket Stadium, Hobart, India women took first strike in the crucial second ODI after a defeat in the series opener. Captain Harmanpreet Kaur’s leadership shone as they amassed 251 for 9, setting Australia 252 to win and keep the series alive.
Openers Mandhana (31, 37 balls, 4 fours) and Rawal (52) laid a 78-run platform. Wickets tumbled post that – Rodrigues (11), Sharma (1) – leaving India in dire straits at 103/4.
Harmanpreet’s 54 off 70 (2×4, 1×6) was the glue, fostering small partnerships. Ghosh scored 22, Gautam 25, Gaud 19, Amanjot 13, and exciting debutant Vaishnavi Sharma 10* (5 balls).
Standout Aussie performers included Gardner (2/39), King (2/41), Sutherland (2/37), with Schutt and Carey taking one each. Their efforts made India graft for every run.
With pride on the line, India seeks redemption. Australia’s chase will be pivotal – can they overhaul 252? Fans await a dramatic finish.