In an ODI encounter that will be etched into the annals of women`s cricket history, Australia, led by the indomitable Alyssa Healy, pulled off the highest-ever successful run chase, outmaneuvering India in a spectacular display of power and precision at the Women`s World Cup 2025 in Visakhapatnam.
Setting the Stage: India`s Formidable Total
The Sunday clash in Visakhapatnam promised fireworks, and the Indian team delivered the first volley. Asked to bat first, the hosts laid down a challenging target, posting an impressive 330 runs. The foundation was meticulously crafted by a stellar opening partnership between Smriti Mandhana and Pratika Rawal. These two, perhaps seeking redemption after recent less-than-ideal performances, combined for a magnificent 155-run stand that had the Australian bowlers toiling.
Mandhana, known for her elegantly aggressive style, accelerated with a flurry of boundaries, including a six and two fours in Sophie Molineux`s first over. She raced to her fifty in just 46 balls and, in a significant personal milestone, became the fastest and youngest player to reach 5000 runs in Women`s ODIs. Rawal, though initially playing a supporting role, showcased her own flair, contributing a solid 75 runs. Despite a brief Australian resurgence initiated by Molineux and later capitalized on by Annabel Sutherland`s five-wicket haul, India found late impetus from Richa Ghosh and Jemimah Rodrigues, ensuring they reached the 300-run mark.
The Chase Begins: A Mountain to Climb
Chasing 331 against a spirited Indian attack on their home turf was a monumental task. The previous record for a successful chase in Women`s ODIs stood at 302, achieved by Sri Lanka just last year. Australia, the reigning champions, needed something extraordinary, and their captain, Alyssa Healy, seemed to have received the memo.
Healy launched Australia`s reply with characteristic audacity, finding an early ally in Phoebe Litchfield. Their 85-run opening stand set a blistering pace, but the middle overs often present a different challenge. The chase saw moments of tension, particularly when the required run rate climbed past seven and veteran Ellyse Perry had to retire hurt.
Healy`s Masterclass: A Captain`s Century for the Ages
This match belonged to Alyssa Healy. Her innings of 142 runs off just 107 balls was a masterclass in controlled aggression. With 21 fours and 3 sixes, she dismantled the Indian bowling attack, placing the ball with surgical precision. Her supple wrists and keen eye allowed her to exploit gaps and dispatch anything slightly off-line. She brought up her fifty in a mere 35 balls, the fastest in this edition of the tournament, signaling her intent early on.
Even when Indian left-arm spinner Sri Charani bowled an excellent spell, picking up crucial wickets and momentarily stemming the flow, Healy remained unfazed. She formed a crucial 95-run partnership with Ashleigh Gardner, steadying the ship and keeping Australia firmly in the hunt. It was a captain`s knock in every sense – her first WODI century while leading her country, acknowledged with a humble wave of the bat, yet resonating with immense significance.
Key Numbers from the Record Chase:
- Alyssa Healy: 142 runs (107 balls), 21×4, 3×6
- Opening Stand: Healy & Litchfield (85 runs)
- Crucial Partnership: Healy & Gardner (95 runs)
- Ellyse Perry: 47* runs (finished the chase after retiring hurt)
- Winning Total: Australia 331/7 (Highest successful chase in Women`s ODIs)
A Thrilling Finish and Historical Significance
Healy`s dismissal, while attempting a cut off Charani, could have sparked a collapse. Indeed, Australia lost Gardner, Tahlia McGrath, and Sophie Molineux in quick succession, slipping from 265 for three to a precarious 303 for seven. Nerves were undoubtedly jangling in the Australian dugout, but cricket, as they say, has a funny way of bringing heroes back.
Ellyse Perry, having retired hurt earlier, returned to the crease and, with the calm demeanor of a seasoned veteran, applied the finishing touches. Her unbeaten 47 runs ensured Australia crossed the line, sealing a historic three-wicket victory. It was a chase that epitomized grit, skill, and the never-say-die attitude of champions.
This record-breaking performance not only secured Australia the top spot in the Women`s World Cup 2025 standings with seven points but also delivered an unforgettable spectacle. While India, now third with four points, will reflect on what might have been, they can take pride in their batting performance and the moments of brilliance from bowlers like Charani. This match will undoubtedly be remembered as a testament to the growing excitement and high-stakes drama in women`s cricket, leaving fans eagerly anticipating the next chapter in the Women`s World Cup 2025.
