In the first ODI of the series at the Allan Border Field, Brisbane, Harmanpreet Kaur’s Team India won the toss and opted to bat against Tahlia McGrath-led Australia on Thursday.
Notable Squad Updates for India
India made significant adjustments to their squad for this three-match series. Young opener Shafali Verma was a surprising omission, while wicketkeeper-batter Richa Ghosh returned to the side after missing the New Zealand series due to academic commitments.
Ahead of the match, skipper Harmanpreet Kaur expressed confidence in Shafali’s eventual return, highlighting her contributions to the team. “Shafali is a crucial player for us and has performed exceptionally well for India. She is keen to return and deliver once again,” said Harmanpreet.
World Cup Preparation and Excitement in Australia
This series serves as an essential warm-up for the Women’s ODI World Cup, which India will host next year. Speaking at the pre-match press conference, Harmanpreet noted the importance of the series for the team’s preparation.
“We always enjoy playing in Australia. The conditions here are exciting, and the team is feeling confident after two productive training sessions,” she added.
India’s Momentum and New Debutants
India enters the series on a high, having recently secured a 2-1 ODI series victory against New Zealand, dominating in all facets of the game.
In the first ODI, India handed a debut to pacer Titas Sadhu, while Australia’s Georgia Voll was also set to play her maiden game.
Playing XIs
India Playing XI: Smriti Mandhana, Priya Punia, Harleen Deol, Harmanpreet Kaur, Jemimah Rodrigues, Richa Ghosh, Deepti Sharma, Titas Sadhu, Priya Mishra, Saima Thakor, Renuka Thakur.
Australia Playing XI: Phoebe Litchfield, Georgia Voll, Ellyse Perry, Beth Mooney, Annabel Sutherland, Ashleigh Gardner, Tahlia McGrath, Georgia Wareham, Alana King, Kim Garth, Megan Schutt.
Australia’s Dominance and India’s Challenge
Historically, Australia has been a dominant force in women’s cricket, as evidenced by their triumph over India in the Women’s T20 World Cup earlier this year. However, India’s recent success against New Zealand highlights their readiness to challenge the hosts.
The stage is set for an exciting series, with both teams looking to make a strong statement ahead of the World Cup.
