A promising start saw India reach 126/3, but Harmanpreet’s wicket triggered a collapse, with the team slumping to 133/8 before scraping to 144/9 in their 20 overs. Australia’s clinical bowling in the slog overs proved decisive.

‘When you’re pushing for runs, you sometimes stumble. We should’ve shown more accountability, especially after losing Smriti – that was the game-changer,’ Harmanpreet reflected. She praised the 55-run alliance with Richa Ghosh but lamented the death-over execution by the Aussies, who varied their pace masterfully.

Reflecting on silver linings, the captain commended the bowlers for hauling Australia back from a flying start to a defendable total. ‘Our bowling was a highlight, and we built partnerships in batting. Next time, we’ll carry the game further and have a finisher deliver,’ she asserted. As the finale looms, India knows the pitch intimately now, setting the stage for a tactical showdown.