India’s women cricketers put up a strong batting performance but fell short against Australia in their ICC Women’s World Cup encounter on Sunday, 12 October 2025, at Visakhapatnam. India posted 330 runs, yet Australia chased the target comfortably, winning by 3 wickets.
Batting first, India saw Smriti Mandhana score 80 off 66 balls and Pritika Rawal contribute 75 off 96 balls. Their opening partnership of 155 runs set a record for India’s highest opening stand in women’s ODI cricket. Harleen Deol added 38 runs while Jemima contributed 33 runs. Annabel Sutherland starred for Australia, taking 5 wickets for 40 runs.
In response, Australia’s chase was led by Alyssa Healy, who scored 142 off 107 balls, marking her first in this tournament. Gardner scored 45 and Perry 47 Not out, guiding Australia to a 3 wicket victory. Shree charani took 3 wickets for 41 runs for India.
Despite India’s big total, Australia’s strong batting, India’s fielding lapses, and Sutherland’s brilliant bowling proved decisive. This marked India’s second consecutive loss in the tournament, emphasizing the need for greater focus in upcoming matches, while Australia reaffirmed their strength and experience.
