The Australia women’s team recovered from their four mishaps during the opening session of the one-off Test match against India on Thursday at the Wankhede Stadium. Australia finished the session with a total of 103-4 in 29 overs. The visitors instantly regretted their decision to bat after winning the toss and choosing to do so after they lost two quick wickets in the first two overs, giving India firm control.
In search of a diamond duck, Phoebe Litchfield walked back towards the pavilion. She hesitated for a split second, which gave Jemimah Rodrigues the opportunity to take advantage and send the batter back for zero. Pooja Vastrakar got past Ellyse Perry’s defence in the following over, sending her back for 4(2). In the ensuing overs, Beth Mooney and Tahlia McGrath launched a counterattack, restoring parity to the score. During their 80-run partnerships, they played with extra composure and some well-timed shots.
Both batters appeared to be in for a lengthy stay on the pitch, but after Tahlia reached the 50-run mark, spinner Sneh Rana used her experience to dismiss her.
The Australian batter, who had two catches dropped in the field, was feeling very lucky.
In a cunning move, Sneh invited the batter to try her luck again. Although Tahlia (50 off 56 balls) accepted the offer, she ultimately sent it to Rajeshwari Gayakwad because she couldn’t find the correct connection. Vastrakar dealt the final blow when she removed Mooney for 40(94) on the last ball of the first session. India retreated, grinning broadly, and made their way back to the changing area. Australia Women 103/4 vs India (Tahlia McGrath 50, Beth Mooney 40, Pooja Vastrakar 2-29) is the short score.
