In a dramatic turn during the opening ODI of the series against Australia in Brisbane, Indian women’s cricket captain Harmanpreet Kaur suffered a knee injury while batting. The incident unfolded on Tuesday at Allan Border Field, casting a shadow over Team India’s campaign right from the start.
BCCI issued an official update stating that Kaur hurt her left knee during her innings and was unable to take the field for the second innings. The medical team is closely monitoring her condition, with vice-captain Smriti Mandhana stepping in to lead the side in her absence.
Kaur played a crucial knock of 53 runs off 84 balls, featuring four boundaries, before falling to Ashley Gardner. The injury occurred earlier when facing Megan Schutt, but the resilient skipper continued batting to stabilize the innings alongside Mandhana.
Opting to bat first after winning the toss, India were bundled out for 214 in 48.3 overs. Early trouble saw them at 52 for 3, but Kaur and Mandhana forged a vital 48-run stand for the fourth wicket off 72 balls, pushing the score past 100.
Mandhana top-scored with 58 off 68 balls, including seven fours. Kashvee Gautam contributed a brisk 43 off 44, while Richa Ghosh made 23 off 38. Australia’s bowlers struck back, with Gardner claiming 3-50, Schutt taking 2, and others like Darcie Brown, Alana King, Tahlia McGrath, and Sophie Molineux picking one each.
As India now chase Australia’s response, Kaur’s fitness remains a key concern for the series. Mandhana’s leadership will be tested in this high-stakes encounter, with the team hoping for their captain’s quick recovery to bolster their World Cup defense.