Visakhapatnam: India’s women’s cricket team stuck with their playing XI against Australia despite the previous defeat to South Africa — and the decision paid off, at least with the bat. The top order, led by Smriti Mandhana and Pratika Rawal, delivered a commanding performance, giving India a perfect start in their Women’s ODI World Cup encounter on Sunday.
The duo’s remarkable 155-run opening partnership off just 147 balls was a reminder of why India had so much confidence in their batting lineup heading into the tournament. However, the middle order’s failure to capitalize meant that the team couldn’t convert the strong platform into a winning total, eventually losing the match by three wickets.
Mandhana Rediscovers Her Best Form
Smriti Mandhana looked in sublime touch, scoring 80 off 66 balls, her best knock of the tournament so far. A crisp cover drive off Kim Garth early on set the tone, but it was her fearless approach against Australia’s spinners that truly stood out. When Sophie Molineux tried to apply pressure, Mandhana countered with a lofted drive, a straight six, and a perfectly timed pull — completely nullifying Australia’s left-arm spin threat.
Pratika Rawal Proves Her Worth
At the other end, Pratika Rawal showcased why India’s team management continues to back her despite earlier struggles with dot balls. Her patient yet composed 75 off 96 balls displayed maturity beyond her experience. She played the anchor role perfectly, giving Mandhana the freedom to attack. Against Ash Gardner, who had dismissed Smriti five times in previous encounters, Pratika stood firm and later went on the offensive, hitting a boundary and a six that forced captain Alyssa Healy to change her plans.
A Partnership Built on Trust and Balance
The chemistry between Mandhana and Pratika was evident. Mandhana, the seasoned campaigner playing her third World Cup, and Pratika, the newcomer barely a year into her international career, complemented each other beautifully — one setting the pace, the other providing stability.
Their stand was India’s highest opening partnership against Australia in Women’s World Cup history, underlining the potential of this pairing for the future. For the Indian think-tank, it validates their decision to pick reliability over raw explosiveness at the top.
Also Read: Rishabh Pant Shows Off Archery Skills, Hits Bullseye on First Try Amid Recovery — Watch Video
India’s Takeaway Despite the Loss
Although Australia chased down the total to win by three wickets, the game gave India something valuable — a dependable and dynamic opening pair. With Smriti Mandhana rediscovering her rhythm and Pratika Rawal learning to convert her starts, India’s top order now looks more settled than ever.
If India can build around this solid foundation and fix their middle-order issues, the team could still make a strong push for the semi-finals. For now, the Mandhana–Pratika partnership is the brightest positive to emerge from this crucial World Cup clash.
Hi, I’m Punith, the founder of IPLMatchUpdates.in. I’ve been following and analyzing IPL and international cricket for over a decade, and my goal is to bring fans accurate news, live updates, and detailed match insights straight from the world of cricket.
Cricket isn’t just a sport to me — it’s a passion. When I’m not writing or sharing updates, you’ll find me analyzing match strategies, reviewing player performances, or debating cricket stats with fellow fans.
Through IPLMatchUpdates.in, I aim to make every cricket lover feel closer to the game we all love.
