In a rain-shortened spectacle at Sydney, the Indian women’s cricket team stunned Australia by 21 runs via DLS method in the opening T20I of a three-match series. Captain’s decision to field first paid rich dividends as India bowled out the world champions for 133 all out in 18 overs.
The Australian top order faltered spectacularly. At 27/2, Litchfield and Perry offered brief resistance with 41 runs, but once Perry was gone for 20, the middle order imploded. Wareham’s 30 was the highest, but the final five wickets cost just 12 runs amid reckless shot-making.
Pace ace Arundhati Reddy stole the show with a sensational 4/22, etching her name in T20 lore. Support came from Thakur and Charani (2 wickets apiece), with Gaud and Sharma adding to the tally. India’s bowlers mixed lengths to perfection, exploiting conditions masterfully.
Under lights, Mandhana and Verma unleashed fury, adding 33 in the powerplay before Verma perished for 21 off 11 balls. India surged to 50/1 in 5.1 overs when clouds burst, halting proceedings. DLS calculations declared India winners by 21 runs, with Mandhana (16*) and Rodrigues (9*) steady at the crease.
Reddy’s brilliance was rewarded with Player of the Match, boosting India’s confidence ahead of the series decider. This victory underscores the growing prowess of Indian women’s cricket on the global stage.