Brisbane’s Allan Border Field witnessed a setback for Indian women’s cricket on Tuesday as captain Harmanpreet Kaur limped off injured during the first ODI against Australia. The BCCI confirmed the left knee issue forced her out of fielding duties, handing the reins to Smriti Mandhana.
Kaur’s gritty 53 off 84 deliveries laid the foundation after India chose to bat, but pain from a blow by Megan Schutt hampered her. She departed to Gardner soon after, leaving the innings in recovery mode.
India struggled post-toss victory, slipping to 52-3 before the captain’s partnership with Mandhana added 48 crucial runs. Mandhana’s 58 (68 balls, 7×4) anchored the middle order, supported by Gautam’s 43 (44) and Ghosh’s 23 (38). The total read 214 all out in 48.3 overs.
Australia’s attack was led by Gardner’s three wickets, with Schutt grabbing two. Brown, King, McGrath, and Molineux shared the rest, putting pressure on India’s bowlers now tasked with defending a modest total under new leadership.
This injury raises questions about Kaur’s participation in upcoming matches, especially after her pivotal role in India’s World Cup triumph. Fans and team alike await medical updates, while Mandhana aims to guide the side to a strong start in the series.