Australia clinched a 43-run victory over India in Delhi to win the ODI series 2-1, in a historic clash that set new records for the most runs scored in women’s one-day internationals. Beth Mooney’s explosive century and Smriti Mandhana’s breathtaking ton highlighted a game packed with boundaries and milestones.
Beth Mooney Leads Australia to Mammoth Total
Australia set the tone with a stunning batting display, piling up 412 runs in 47.5 overs, equalling their highest-ever ODI total.
Beth Mooney produced a career-best 138 off 75 balls, bringing up her century in just 57 deliveries — the joint second-fastest hundred in women’s ODIs at the time.
She was supported by Georgia Voll (81 off 68), who survived three dropped chances, and veteran Ellyse Perry (68 off 72), as Australia’s top order demolished India’s bowling attack. Despite falling short of batting out the innings, the tourists’ fireworks secured a record-breaking target.
Smriti Mandhana Responds with Blistering Century
India fought back fiercely, led by Smriti Mandhana’s sensational 125 off 63 balls, reaching her century in just 50 deliveries — the fastest ever by an Indian woman in ODIs.
Supported by Deepti Sharma (72) and captain Harmanpreet Kaur (52), India remained in the chase deep into the innings. However, Australia’s bowlers, led by Kim Garth with 3-69, eventually bowled the hosts out for 369 in 47 overs, falling 43 runs short.
Records Tumble in Run-Filled Series Decider
The clash produced 781 runs in total, setting a new record for the highest aggregate in women’s ODIs, surpassing the previous mark of 678 set by England and South Africa in 2017.
It also marked the highest aggregate in women’s List A cricket, eclipsing Bengal vs Haryana’s 779 in 2024. With 99 fours and 12 sixes struck, the 111 boundaries hit at the Arun Jaitley Stadium set another landmark in women’s cricket history.
Australia Extend Series Dominance Over India
The victory continued Australia’s dominance in bilateral ODIs against India, extending their perfect series-winning streak to 11. They have also now won nine consecutive ODI series since their 2023 Women’s Ashes defeat.
The series once again highlighted the growing rivalry between the two nations, both tipped as frontrunners for the upcoming 2025 Women’s World Cup in India and Sri Lanka, which begins on 30 September.
Conclusion: World Cup Favourites Deliver a Classic
This ODI decider not only gave Australia a 2-1 series win but also reinforced why Australia and India are strong contenders for the 2025 Women’s World Cup. With explosive batting, relentless scoring, and record-breaking feats, fans can expect another blockbuster when these sides meet again later this year.
About The Author
