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In a historic women’s cricket Test at Mumbai’s Wankhede Stadium, Australia faced a significant setback recording their lowest score against India. Opting to bat after winning the toss, Australia struggled as opener Phoebe Litchfield was run-out for a duck in the opening over. Seamer Pooja Vastrakar’s exceptional four-wicket haul spearheaded India’s bowling dominance, securing eight wickets in the first two sessions and restricting Australia to 219 in 77.4 overs. Off-spinner Sneh Rana contributed with three wickets, while Deepti Sharma chipped in with two.
Australia’s lone resilient partnership came from Beth Mooney and Tahlia McGrath, amassing 80 runs. Although Mooney fell short, McGrath showcased a quickfire 50 from 56 balls. This challenging innings marked Australia’s lowest score in women’s Tests against India, surpassing their previous low of 250 in Adelaide in 2006.
The one-off contest, the first between the teams in India in 39 years, holds historical significance, echoing the last match held at the same venue in 1984. The match unfolded as a testament to India’s bowling prowess and Australia’s struggle on the Mumbai pitch.