On December 5, 2024, the Indian women’s cricket team suffered a crushing defeat in the first ODI of their three-match series against Australia in Brisbane. Batting first, India collapsed to a meagre total of just 100 runs, a target that Australia easily chased down to win by five wickets.
India's innings began with early promise, but the top order quickly fell under pressure. The Australian bowlers, led by Megan Schutt, exploited the conditions and dismantled India’s batting line-up. India’s captain, Harmanpreet Kaur, fought valiantly to top-score with 23 runs, but wickets continued to tumble around her. The Indian middle-order, including Titas Sadhu (2), Saima Thakor (4), and Deepti Sharma (1, run out), were all dismissed cheaply, leaving India reeling. Richa Ghosh contributed just 14 runs, and the tail failed to make any significant resistance. With India all out for 100 in just 34 overs, the Australian bowlers had complete control of the game. Schutt was the star performer, claiming five wickets and making a mockery of India’s batting efforts.
In reply, Australia’s chase was smooth and steady. Openers Phoebe Litchfield (35) and Georgia Voll (44*) made quick work of the target, with Litchfield hitting boundaries early to put Australia in the driver’s seat. Though India’s bowlers, including Renuka Thakur, who took two wickets, and Titas Sadhu, who bowled a couple of tight overs, managed a few breakthroughs, it was never enough to stop Australia from comfortably reaching their target. Voll, on her debut, remained unbeaten and guided her team to a straightforward win.
Australia’s chase was never in serious trouble. Despite a couple of bright moments from the Indian bowlers, the low total meant there was little room for error. India’s performance was marred by a complete batting collapse, and the star performance of Schutt overshadowed any resistance they could muster with the ball.
With this win, Australia now leads the series 1-0, leaving India with a significant challenge in the remaining two matches. The Indian women will need to regroup and focus on strengthening their batting if they are to stand a chance against a dominant Australian team in the upcoming games. India’s batting line-up, which has been inconsistent in recent times, will need to find ways to build partnerships and post competitive totals to challenge Australia’s formidable attack.
