australia women vs india women
India vs Australia Women's T20 World Cup 2024 Match Summary
In a high-stakes clash during the ICC Women's T20 World Cup 2024 at Sharjah, Australia secured a thrilling 9-run victory over India, sealing their place in the semi-finals. Australia's well-rounded performance, led by Grace Harris and their experienced middle order, ensured they posted a competitive 151/8 in their 20 overs. Despite a valiant effort by Indian captain Harmanpreet Kaur, who remained unbeaten on 54, India fell short in their chase, finishing at 142/9.
Key Moments in the Match
Australia’s Batting Resilience
Australia started shakily with Renuka Singh striking twice in two deliveries, dismissing Beth Mooney and Georgia Wareham early. However, the team displayed batting depth, with Grace Harris (40) anchoring the innings. Contributions from Tahlia McGrath (32) and Ellyse Perry (32) allowed Australia to recover and finish with a strong total.India’s Response: A Powerplay Stumble
India’s chase got off to a rapid but inconsistent start. Shafali Verma hit 20 off 13 balls, but both she and Smriti Mandhana fell early, leaving India at 41/2 after the powerplay. Jemimah Rodrigues added 16 off 12 but could not build a substantial partnership with Kaur.A Dramatic Final Over
Harmanpreet Kaur’s calculated innings took the game to the last over with India needing 14 runs. However, Annabel Sutherland’s brilliant death bowling caused chaos, resulting in four wickets, including two run-outs. Kaur’s valiant knock ended in heartbreak as she remained stranded, unable to pull off a last-over miracle.Notable Performances
Renuka Singh (2/24) and Deepti Sharma (2/28) were impressive with the ball for India, but Australia’s ability to rotate strike and capitalize in key moments proved decisive. Sophie Molineux's disciplined bowling disrupted India’s middle order, while Harris and McGrath’s efforts were instrumental in Australia’s innings recovery.
Impact of the Result
The victory solidifies Australia's position in the semi-finals with a perfect group-stage record, while India’s hopes of qualification now rest on the outcome of Pakistan's game against New Zealand. For India to advance, they will need Pakistan to win by a narrow margin to avoid a net run rate disadvantage.
Both teams dealt with injury setbacks, with Australia missing key players Alyssa Healy and Tayla Vlaeminck, while India made adjustments to their lineup, including bringing in Radha Yadav and Pooja Vastrakar.
This gripping encounter underscored the fierce rivalry between the two sides and highlighted Australia’s depth and ability to handle pressure in crunch situations. India, despite the loss, showcased resilience, setting up what promises to be an exciting finish to the group stage.