Beth Mooney, Alyssa Healy Seal Dominant Chase as Australia Outclass India in ODI Opener

Australia produced a clinical all-round performance to defeat India by six wickets in the opening ODI at Allan Border Field, with Alyssa Healy and Beth Mooney steering a comfortable chase of 215.

Set 215 after bowling India out for 214 in the 49th over, Australia paced their pursuit expertly despite lively seam conditions. Healy, beginning her farewell ODI series, anchored the innings with a composed 50 off 70 balls. After her dismissal, Mooney took control, finishing unbeaten on 76 from 79 deliveries to guide Australia home in the 39th over.

Earlier, Australia’s bowlers laid the foundation for victory. Megan Schutt, drafted in late, struck with the second ball of the match and returned 2 for 42 from nine overs. Ashleigh Gardner was the standout performer, claiming 3 for 33, while six bowlers shared the wickets in a disciplined display.

India’s innings was built around half-centuries from Smriti Mandhana (58 off 68) and Harmanpreet Kaur (53 off 84), but regular wickets prevented them from building sustained momentum. From 52 for 3, India slipped to 103 for 5 before Harmanpreet and Kashvee Gautam (43 off 44) added a fighting 53-run partnership. Gautam struck three sixes in a spirited knock, yet the total proved below par.

India’s task grew harder when Harmanpreet was unable to field due to a left knee injury sustained while batting, with vice-captain Mandhana leading in her absence.

Australia’s victory not only levels the multi-format series but also extends their remarkable record at Allan Border Field, where they remain unbeaten in ODIs.

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