The first ODI of India’s ongoing multi-format series against Australia will take place at the Brisbane Cricket Ground on February 24 at 9:20 AM IST. The T20I leg of the tour was a complete thriller, with India sealing the three-match series 2-1.
India won the rain affected opener by 21 runs (DLS method), and though Australia bounced back with a 19-run victory in the second game, India sealed the decider by 17 runs. With the focus now shifting to the 50 over format, both sides will look to gain an early advantage in what promises to be another fiercely competitive battle.
Historically, Australia have dominated the ODI rivalry. Out of 61 ODIs played between the two sides, Australia have won 49 matches, while India have secured 12 victories. However, with India coming into this contest high on confidence after their T20I success, and the memorable 2025 World Cup semifinal win, the momentum could make this an evenly poised contest.
Squads:
Australia Women’s Cricket Team
Sophie Molineux, Tahlia McGrath, Darcie Brown, Nicola Carey, Kim Garth, Grace Harris, Phoebe Litchfield, Beth Mooney, Ellyse Perry, Megan Schutt, Annabel Sutherland, Georgia Voll, Georgia Wareham.
India Women’s Cricket Team
Harmanpreet Kaur, Smriti Mandhana, Harleen Deol, Kranti Gaud, Kashvee Gautam, Richa Ghosh, Gunalan Kamalini, Amanjot Kaur, Pratika Rawal, Sneh Rana, Renuka Singh, Jemimah Rodrigues, Shafali Verma, Sree Charani, Vaishnavi Sharma, Deepti Sharma.
Players to watch out:
Sophie Molineux
The slow left-arm orthodox bowler has been impressive in the ODI format. In 17 ODIs, she has taken 31 wickets, with best figures of 4/14 and an economy rate of 3.89. Her ability to control the middle overs and break partnerships makes her a crucial weapon for Australia.
Annabel Sutherland
The right-hand batter and right-arm medium fast bowling all-rounder has been a consistent performer. In 49 ODIs, she has scored 981 runs at a strike rate of 92, including three centuries and four half-centuries. Alongside her batting contributions, she has also picked up 60 wickets, making her one of Australia’s most valuable assets.
Smriti Mandhana
The left-hand opener has been the backbone of India’s batting lineup. In 117 ODIs, she has amassed 5,322 runs at a strike rate of 90, including 14 centuries and 34 half-centuries. Her role at the top will be vital in setting the tone for India.
Jemimah Rodrigues
The right-hand middle-order batter has been a reliable performer in ODIs. In 59 matches, she has scored 1,749 runs at a strike rate of 89, including three centuries and eight half-centuries. She also offers part time off spin, having taken five wickets in the format.
Pitch:
The pitch at the Brisbane Cricket Ground is known for its lively surface, offering consistent bounce and pace. Fast bowlers are likely to get slight assistance with the new ball, making the early overs crucial. Teams batting first have a 52%-win rate, while teams bowling first win around 48%.
Weather:
The forecast predicts a minimum temperature of 21°C and a maximum of 28°C. There is a 40% chance of precipitation, with humidity around 65% and winds blowing at 16 km/h, which could provide some movement for the seamers.
Fantasy Playing XI:
Beth Mooney, Smriti Mandhana, Phoebe Litchfield, Harmanpreet Kaur, Tahlia McGrath, Ellyse Perry, Deepti Sharma, Annabel Sutherland, Sophie Molineux, Renuka Singh, Georgia Voll
Match Details:
Date – February 24, 2026
Time – 9:20 AM IST
Venue – Brisbane Cricket Ground, Woolloongabba, Brisbane
Broadcast – Jio Hotstar & Star Sports Network
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