Visakhapatnam, India – In a stunning display of batting prowess, Alyssa Healy's magnificent century propelled Australia to a record-breaking chase against India in the Women's Cricket World Cup. The Australian captain led from the front with a masterful 142, guiding her team to a three-wicket victory over the host nation. Australia successfully chased down a target of 331, the highest ever in women's ODI history, surpassing Sri Lanka's 302 against South Africa in 2024.
India, after being asked to bat first, posted an impressive 330, fueled by half-centuries from Smriti Mandhana (80) and Pratika Rawal (75). The opening duo forged a 155-run partnership, setting a solid foundation for a massive total. Mandhana also reached a milestone during her innings, completing 5000 ODI runs. However, after their departure, India experienced a batting slump, losing nine wickets for 138 runs. Annabel Sutherland's impressive five-wicket haul triggered India's collapse.
Chasing a record total, Australia's innings revolved around Healy's brilliant knock. She dominated the Indian bowlers, smashing 21 fours and three sixes in her 107-ball innings. Healy shared a brisk opening stand with Phoebe Litchfield and later formed a crucial partnership with Ashleigh Gardner. She reached her century off 84 balls, marking her first ODI century as captain.
Despite Healy's dismissal with Australia still needing 66 runs, Ellyse Perry ensured that Australia remained on track. Perry, who had earlier retired hurt due to cramps, returned to the crease and guided her team home with an unbeaten 47. Australia reached the target with six balls to spare, securing a memorable victory.
The victory propels Australia to the top of the World Cup standings, while India now sit in third place after suffering their second consecutive defeat.
"Really proud of the group to pull ourselves over the line there," said Healy after the match. "I kept preaching the depth we have got in our line-up, but full credit to our bowlers as well, who pulled it back as we could have been chasing 360 plus," she added.
The match also held significance off the field for Indian cricket, as a stand at the ACA-VCA Stadium was named after former captain Mithali Raj, and a gate was named after Raavi Kalpana.
