India vs Australia: In a historic feat for Indian women’s cricket, the national team secured their first-ever Test victory against Australia, emerging triumphant by eight wickets at the iconic Wankhede Stadium. This landmark achievement reshapes the narrative for the Women in Blue, who had previously contested Australia in 10 Tests, with four losses and six draws before this historic win on December 24.
Australia’s skipper Alyssa Healy won the toss on the opening day and elected to bat. However, the Indian bowlers exploited favorable conditions, with Pooja Vastrakar (4/53), Sneh Rana (3/56), and Deepti Sharma (2/45) wreaking havoc and dismissing the visitors for 219.
India’s response was anchored by a solid start from Smriti Mandhana (74) and Shafali Varma (40). Subsequent substantial contributions from Richa Ghosh (52) and Jemimah Rodrigues (73) built a substantial lead. However, the remarkable 122-run partnership between Deepti Sharma (78) and Pooja Vastrakar (47) firmly placed the hosts in control with a commanding 187-run advantage.
Australia’s fightback came from Beth Mooney (33), Ellyse Perry (45), and Tahlia McGrath (73) on day three. Despite their resilience, India’s captain, Harmanpreet Kaur, introduced herself into the attack, claiming two crucial wickets to tilt the balance in favor of the hosts. The spin duo of Sneh Rana (4/63) and Rajeshwari Gayakwad (2/42) sealed the deal on the final day, bowling Australia out for 261. With a target of 75, India, despite a shaky start, secured the win with eight wickets in hand, with Mandhana contributing an unbeaten 38.
This victory against Australia follows India’s recent success against England, where they triumphed by a record margin of 347 runs at the DY Patil Stadium earlier in December. The back-to-back Test wins underscore the growing prowess of India Women’s cricket, setting the stage for further achievements on the international stage.
The triumph at the Wankhede marks a historic breakthrough and signifies a moment of pride and celebration for Indian women’s cricket, showcasing their resilience, skill, and determination in the global cricketing landscape.
