Australia dominated the opening ODI against India, with Megan Schutt leading the charge with a brilliant 5 for 19, skittling India out for just 100 runs at Allan Border Field. This was Schutt’s first five-wicket haul in ODI cricket, and it gave Australia complete control of the series opener.
India’s innings never got going, as their batting order collapsed under pressure. Despite good conditions for batting, India lost wickets regularly, struggling to form partnerships. The new-look top order, which included Priya Punia and Smriti Mandhana, failed to capitalize. Mandhana, who had looked promising early on, was caught behind off Schutt, triggering a collapse. Punia followed soon after, caught at backward square for just 3 off 17 balls, leaving India at 19 for 2.
India captain Harmanpreet Kaur’s decision to bat first seemed questionable, especially considering teams historically do well chasing at this ground. Harmanpreet and Harleen Deol attempted to rebuild, but pressure mounted. Deol was dismissed for 6, caught by Annabel Sutherland off Ashleigh Gardner’s bowling. Harmanpreet, who had an early scare with a close run-out chance, was later dismissed by Sutherland for just 2.
Jemimah Rodrigues showed some resistance, but her 23-run knock ended with a brilliant delivery from Kim Garth. India’s collapse continued as they lost their final six wickets for just 11 runs. Australia’s fielding also impressed, with Georgia Wareham executing a direct hit to run out Deepti Sharma.
With Australia’s complete dominance in the field, debutant Georgia Voll will hope to carry the momentum forward as Australia eye a series win.
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