Australian Women Clinch T20I Series: Healy and Mooney Shine as Australia beat India in 3rd T20I
In a dazzling display of skill and determination, Alyssa Healy‘s explosive 55 runs off 38 balls, marking her 150th T20I appearance, propelled Australia to a sensational 2-1 series victory against India. The clinical performance, supported by Beth Mooney’s solid 52*, showcased Australia’s ability to bounce back after a Test defeat, securing the white-ball double on their Indian tour.
Healy’s Thunderous Assault
Alyssa Healy wasted no time in setting the tone, smashing a scintillating 38-ball 55, steering Australia comfortably ahead at the ten-over mark. The opening partnership of 85 runs in 10 overs, alongside Beth Mooney, laid the groundwork for Australia’s successful chase of 148 runs. The fireworks from Healy in her milestone T20I appearance showcased her prowess and determination.
India’s Resilience Falls Short
India’s first-innings total of 147 for 6 was the highest in the three-match T20I series, yet the dew factor loomed large in the second innings. Shafali Verma’s explosive start with 26 off 17 balls and Richa Ghosh’s late surge with 34 off 28 provided a boost, but Annabel Sutherland’s figures of 2 for 12 and Georgia Wareham’s 2 for 24 in their four-over spells proved decisive.
India’s Top-Order Stumble
Shafali Verma’s aggressive start propelled India to 60 for 1, but the loss of three senior batters in quick succession dented their progress. Jemimah Rodrigues, Smriti Mandhana, and Harmanpreet Kaur fell consecutively, leaving India at 66 for 4. The middle-order, led by Deepti Sharma and Richa Ghosh, mounted a brief fightback, adding 33 runs in 4.5 overs.
Mooney’s Anchor and Healy’s Blitz
In contrast to the top-order stumble for India, Australia’s openers Healy and Mooney laid a solid foundation. Healy’s explosive start, including three fours in an over off Titas Sadhu, and Mooney’s anchoring innings ensured Australia reached 54 for no loss by the end of the powerplay. Mooney’s well-crafted half-century, her first of the tour, steered Australia to victory.
Turning Points in India’s Innings
Shafali Verma’s early aggression provided India with a solid start, but the quick wickets of Rodrigues, Mandhana, and Kaur derailed their progress. Ghosh’s late onslaught, marked by a massive six off Wareham, propelled India towards their highest total of the series. Pooja Vastrakar’s last-ball six added crucial runs, setting a target of 148 for Australia.
Healy’s Milestone and Mooney’s Composure
Alyssa Healy’s 150th T20I appearance was a milestone marked by a fiery 55 runs, setting the stage for Australia’s victory. Beth Mooney, playing her part with composure, anchored the chase, finishing unbeaten on 52*. Healy’s dismissal, lbw on review, did not derail the momentum, thanks to Tahlia McGrath’s quickfire innings. Phoebe Litchfield, remaining unbeaten on 17, sealed the game with Mooney.
Australia’s T20I Series Victory
Australia’s clinical performance in the third T20I secured their series win, bouncing back from a Test defeat earlier in the tour. The well-balanced contributions from the team, especially Healy, Mooney, and the bowlers, showcased their adaptability and resilience. India, despite moments of brilliance, fell short in defending their total, highlighting Australia’s dominance in the white-ball format.
In conclusion, Australia’s triumph in the T20I series against India adds another feather to their cap, emphasizing their prowess in women’s cricket. The series, marked by individual brilliance and team effort, will be remembered as a testament to the competitive spirit and skill on display. As the cricketing world applauds Australia’s achievement, Indian fans eagerly await the next chapter in their team’s season.
WPL 2024 | Women’s Premier League 2024:
The Women’s Premier League (WPL) is set to kick off next month, promising thrilling matches and intense competition. Mark your calendars as top-notch women cricketers gear up to showcase their skills in this highly anticipated tournament.
