Georgia Voll and Ellyse Perry delivered masterclass performances to lead Australia to a commanding victory over India, clinching the ODI series with a game to spare.
India’s Struggles in the Series Opener
The visitors, led by skipper Harmanpreet Kaur, suffered a tough defeat in the first ODI, failing to match Australia’s intensity. Changes were made for the second ODI, with Sophie Molineux replacing Georgia Wareham for the hosts. For India, Minnu Mani made her debut, replacing Titas Sadhu.
Twin Centuries Lead Australia’s Charge
Australia’s innings were powered by phenomenal batting performances. After Tahlia McGrath opted to bat first, openers Phoebe Litchfield and Georgia Voll built a blistering 130-run stand. Litchfield scored a well-crafted 60 off 63 balls before falling to Saima Thakor in the 20th over.
Ellyse Perry then joined Voll, further accelerating the innings. Their 92-run partnership showcased exceptional coordination, with Perry taking the lead in scoring. Voll reached her maiden ODI century (101 off 87 balls) in style but was dismissed soon after by Thakor.
105 Runs
75 Balls
7×4
6×6
SR: 140Ellyse Perry showing why she is the best in the business.#CricketTwitter #AUSvIND pic.twitter.com/Q4K0fISPaP
— Female Cricket (@imfemalecricket) December 8, 2024
Beth Mooney continued the onslaught alongside Perry, adding 98 more runs for the third wicket. Perry’s sublime 105 off 75 balls marked her third ODI century and pushed Australia to a mammoth total of 371/8. Mooney contributed a brisk 56 off 44 balls.
Australia’s Record-Breaking Total
Australia’s total of 371/8 is their highest against India in ODIs and their third-highest ever in the format. The top-order batters contributed 87% of the runs, setting a daunting challenge for India.
India’s Chase Falls Short
India began the chase with a surprising move, promoting Richa Ghosh to open with Smriti Mandhana. However, Kim Garth’s early strike sent Mandhana back in the 4th over. Harleen Deol added stability but departed soon, leaving India at a precarious position.
Skipper Harmanpreet Kaur and Richa Ghosh built a vital 66-run partnership, with Ghosh reaching a commendable half-century (54 off 72 balls). However, Alana King’s timely breakthrough ended Ghosh’s promising innings.
Australia bossed 1st Innings with 371 on board. 🫡
Tough day for Indian bowlers at Brisbane. #CricketTwitter #AUSvIND pic.twitter.com/SBWvdsTa4W
— Female Cricket (@imfemalecricket) December 8, 2024
Harmanpreet partnered with Jemimah Rodrigues for a 38-run stand but fell to Megan Schutt, dealing a significant blow to India’s hopes. A spirited 46* from debutant Minnu Mani wasn’t enough, as India collapsed, losing their last six wickets for just 101 runs and getting bowled out for 249.
Australian Bowlers Shine Again
Australia’s bowlers performed exceptionally, limiting India’s scoring opportunities. Annabel Sutherland led the charge with four wickets, while Garth, Schutt, and Ashleigh Gardner chipped in with key breakthroughs.
2-0 Series Win!!
Australia sealed the series beating India by 122 Runs in Brisbane.#CricketTwitter #AUSvIND pic.twitter.com/9jqZLvZFBr
— Female Cricket (@imfemalecricket) December 8, 2024
Ellyse Perry was deservingly awarded Player of the Match for her game-defining century and overall contributions. Alongside Georgia Voll, Perry played a pivotal role in sealing Australia’s ODI series victory.
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