HOBART – In a crucial push to level the three-match ODI series, the Indian women’s cricket team won the toss and elected to bat first against Australia in the second ODI at Ninja Stadium on Sunday. Captain Harmanpreet Kaur called correctly, setting the stage for a determined batting effort after a disappointing loss in the series opener.
The first ODI in Brisbane saw India post 214 all out, only for Australia to chase it down comfortably with 217 for 4 in 38.2 overs, securing a six-wicket victory. Key batters like Prathika Raval (0), Shafali Verma (4), and Jemimah Rodrigues (8) struggled, and they will be under pressure to deliver substantial contributions today. Smriti Mandhana, who notched a half-century last time, and skipper Harmanpreet are expected to anchor the innings and build a challenging total.
Making her international debut, 20-year-old left-arm spinner Vaishnavi Sharma adds fresh energy to the side. Her inclusion bolsters India’s spin attack alongside Deepti Sharma and others, as they aim to put Australia under pressure in the second innings.
Australia, leading 1-0, is eager to seal the series with another win. Led by Alyssa Healy, their batting lineup featuring Phoebe Litchfield, Georgia Voll, and Beth Mooney looks formidable, backed by a strong bowling unit including Annabel Sutherland and Megan Schutt.
India’s Playing XI: Smriti Mandhana, Prathika Raval, Harmanpreet Kaur (c), Jemimah Rodrigues, Richa Ghosh (wk), Deepti Sharma, Amanjot Kaur, Kashvee Gautam, Kranti Gaud, Vaishnavi Sharma, Sree Charani.
Australia’s Playing XI: Alyssa Healy (c), Phoebe Litchfield, Georgia Voll, Beth Mooney (wk), Annabel Sutherland, Ashley Gardner, Tahlia McGrath, Nicola Carey, Alana King, Megan Schutt, Darcie Brown.
With the series on the line, India needs a big score to stay alive. Fans are watching closely as the young debutant and seasoned stars combine to challenge the hosts.