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In a gripping encounter at the Wankhede Stadium, Smriti Mandhana showcased her prowess with a half-century, steering India Women to a position of strength against a determined Australia Women on the second day of the one-off Test match.
Facing a resilient Australian side that claimed two crucial wickets in the morning session, Smriti Mandhana displayed cautious yet confident batting. Starting the day at 43, she crafted a composed innings, reaching 74 and forming a crucial 50-run partnership with Sneh Rana (8). As lunch was called on the second day, India Women stood at 193/3 in 52 overs.
Richa Ghosh (24*) and Jemimah Rodrigues (24*) were at the crease, showcasing resilience against the Australian bowling attack. Despite the ball keeping low on a pitch favorable to batting, Australia’s bowlers adjusted their strategies, making it a riveting contest.
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Australia skipper Alyssa Healy deployed a combination of pace and spin, with Annabel Sutherland and Ashleigh Gardner leading the attack. Leg-spinner Alana King added a spin dimension to challenge the Indian batters.
Mandhana’s half-century came off 65 balls, punctuated by eight fours, as she exhibited a blend of precision and aggression. However, a mix-up between Mandhana and Richa led to a run-out, interrupting a potentially century-worthy innings.
Debutant Richa Ghosh survived a dropped catch by Ellyse Perry, providing a crucial lifeline. The partnership between Richa and Jemimah stood strong, adding 46 runs for the unfinished fourth wicket, guiding India to 193/3 at lunch.
Australia’s Ashleigh Gardner emerged as the standout bowler, maintaining pressure with an unchanged 13-over spell and claiming the wicket of Sneh Rana. Despite the challenges posed by Australia, India Women hold a promising position with 26 runs behind Australia’s first-innings score.
-IANS
