Visakhapatnam, October 12 (IANS): Australia stunned India with a record-breaking chase of 331 runs to win by three wickets in a thrilling Women’s World Cup 2025 group-stage clash on Sunday.
Skipper Alyssa Healy led from the front with a magnificent 142 off 107 balls, while Ellyse Perry returned after retiring hurt to guide her team home with an unbeaten 47 off 52 balls. The chase — completed in 49 overs — is now the highest successful run chase in women’s ODI history.
Healy’s Heroics Set the Stage
After India posted a competitive 330, Australia’s openers Healy and Phoebe Litchfield gave a flying start, adding 84 runs for the first wicket. Local star Shree Charani dismissed Litchfield to provide the breakthrough, but Healy continued her assault, smashing 21 fours and 3 sixes en route to her sixth career century — and her first as captain.
India clawed back with wickets at regular intervals, including Healy’s crucial dismissal by Sneh Rana, who took a spectacular diving catch. However, Perry’s calm return ensured Australia crossed the finish line with one over to spare.
Mandhana Reaches Historic Milestone
Earlier, India’s vice-captain Smriti Mandhana scored 80 runs, becoming the first player in women’s ODI history to cross 1,000 runs in a calendar year. Pratika Rawal contributed 75, while Harmanpreet Kaur and Richa Ghosh added vital middle-order runs.
India’s promising start faded as Annabel Sutherland (5/40) ripped through the lower order to claim her maiden five-wicket haul, supported by Sophie Molineux (3/75).
Despite a spirited effort from the Indian bowlers, Australia’s batting depth proved decisive — securing a memorable victory and rewriting the record books.
