The first ODI of the three-match series between Australia and India was a one-sided affair that saw the hosts emerge victorious by five wickets. Australia's Megan Schutt was the standout performer, delivering a stunning spell of 5/19 in 6.2 overs to dismantle India's batting lineup.
Australia bulldoze India by 5 wickets
The Indian women, after opting to bat first, were bundled out for a paltry 100 runs. The chase wasn't entirely smooth for Australia, as they too lost five wickets in the process. However, they managed to reach the target in just 16.2 overs. India's new opening pair of Smriti Mandhana and Priya Punia failed to make a significant impact, falling victim to Schutt's early onslaught. The middle-order batters, including Harleen Deol, Harmanpreet Kaur, Jemimah Rodrigues, and Richa Ghosh, got starts but couldn't convert them into substantial scores, as none of them could cross the 23-run mark.
The Australian bowlers continued to dominate in the middle overs, denying India any respite. The Indian batting lineup crumbled under pressure, losing the last three wickets without scoring a single run, collapsing from a relatively respectable 89/4 to a dismal 100 all out.
Megan Schutt causes India's batting collapse
Megan Schutt was the architect of India's batting collapse. She struck early, dismissing the openers in her first spell. Returning later, she dismantled the lower middle-order, sealing India's fate. Despite batting for 34.2 overs, India could only manage a meager total of 100 runs.
While Australia was expected to chase down the modest target of 101 runs with ease, the Indian bowlers made the chase a bit more interesting. Renuka Thakur was particularly impressive, picking up three wickets in a short span. She dismissed key players like Phoebe Litchfield, Ellyse Perry, and Beth Mooney, reducing Australia to 52/3 from a comfortable 48/0.
The leg-spinner Priya Mishra joined the party as he got rid of Annabel Sutherland and Ash Gardner. This left Australia reeling at 97/5 despite chasing a lowly total. However, the target was too small to cause any real concern. Debutant opener Georgia Voll remained unbeaten on 46 runs as Australia comfortably chased down the target in just 16.2 overs. Meanwhile, the second ODI between India and Australia will be played on December 8 at the Allan Border Field in Brisbane.