Australia Women vs India Women: Series Decider, Smriti Mandhana’s Century and Historic Chance for India

India Women and Australia Women are heading into a thrilling ODI series decider in New Delhi, with the series locked at 1-1. After a dominant response in the second ODI, powered by Smriti Mandhana’s century, India Women are chasing their first-ever bilateral ODI series win over Australia Women. With the World Cup on the horizon, the clash has taken on even greater significance.

India Women Bounce Back with Record Victory

After losing the opening ODI, India Women staged a remarkable comeback in the second match. Smriti Mandhana’s 117 off 91 balls anchored a total of 292, which proved too much for Australia Women. The result was Australia’s heaviest-ever ODI defeat, with India claiming a 102-run win. The emphatic performance not only leveled the series but also gave Harmanpreet Kaur’s side belief that they can topple the world champions.

Highlights from the Second ODI:

• India Women posted 292/8 in their innings.

• Smriti Mandhana’s century included 14 boundaries.

• Australia Women were bowled out for just 190.

• Victory margin: 102 runs, Australia’s worst in ODI history.

Australia Women’s Early Series Lead

Australia Women began the series strongly, winning the first ODI by eight wickets. Beth Mooney played a crucial role as Australia easily chased down India’s 281/7. The visitors looked in complete control at the time, but India’s revival in the second game has shifted the momentum dramatically.

Smriti Mandhana Equals World Record

Smriti Mandhana’s brilliance has been the standout story of the series. Her 12th ODI century not only rescued India in the second game but also matched the world record for the most hundreds scored by an opener in women’s ODIs. Mandhana’s form will be vital again in the series decider.

Key Details for the 3rd ODI in New Delhi

The final match will be played at Arun Jaitley Stadium, with a massive crowd expected to witness what could be a historic result for Indian women’s cricket.

Players to Watch in the Series Decider

Both teams have match-winners who could turn the game on its head in the deciding ODI.

India Women:

• Smriti Mandhana – in sublime form with the bat.

• Harmanpreet Kaur – experienced captain capable of leading from the front.

• Renuka Singh Thakur – key in the pace attack.

• Kranti Goud – bowling support in middle overs.

Australia Women:

• Alyssa Healy – captain and top-order anchor.

• Beth Mooney – vital contributor in the first ODI win.

• Ellyse Perry – all-rounder with big-match experience.

• Kim Garth & Grace Harris – fresh inclusions bringing depth to the squad.

India Women to Wear Pink Jerseys for a Cause

Adding to the significance of the match, India Women will wear pink jerseys in the third ODI as part of a breast cancer awareness campaign. The initiative gives the decider not only a sporting edge but also a social message, as cricket lends its voice to a vital cause.

What’s at Stake in the Final ODI

The series currently stands at 1-1, making the third ODI a true winner-takes-all clash. For India Women, victory would mean their first bilateral ODI series win over Australia Women, a milestone achievement that could boost confidence ahead of the upcoming World Cup. For Australia Women, it is about reclaiming dominance after a rare heavy defeat.

With history on the line, the Arun Jaitley Stadium is set for a high-stakes battle that promises runs, drama, and unforgettable moments in women’s cricket.