India Women Cricket Team wrapped up their first home season of Test cricket in nearly three decades with a historic triumph, securing a dominant maiden victory over Australia in the one-off Test at Mumbai's iconic Wankhede Stadium. In an impressive display on the final day, India showcased their prowess with both bat and ball, orchestrating a collapse in the Australian lineup, claiming the last five wickets for a mere 28 runs in just under 74 minutes. They then comfortably chased down a modest target of 75 to seal an eight-wicket win.
Smriti Mandhana (38 not out) and Jemimah Rodrigues (12 not out) saw the Indian side home with the former hitting a boundary of Australia’s Jess Jonassen’s ball.
The Wankhede Stadium erupted in celebration following the win, with a viral video capturing fans chanting Vande Mataram in the stands. The crowd's enthusiasm was praised by cricket fans, acknowledging their presence and support for this historic moment in Indian women's cricket. Several reactions, including the one from secretary of BCCI-Jay Shah, expressing delight on the win by the Women In Blue made rounds on the internet.
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Batting first, Australia were dismissed for 219 in their opening innings, with Tahlia McGrath impressing by scoring 50 runs. Pooja Vastrakar showcased her bowling prowess for India, claiming 4/53, while Sneh Rana and Deepti Sharma contributed with three and two wickets respectively.
In response, Harmanpreet Kaur-led Indian team posted a commanding 406 runs, securing a substantial 187-run lead in the first innings. Smriti Mandhana, Richa Ghosh, Jemimah Rodrigues, and Deepti Sharma all contributed half-centuries to India's total. Ashleigh Gardner was the standout bowler for Australia, taking four wickets, while Kim Garth and Annabel Sutherland managed to secure two wickets each.
During the visitor's second innings, India managed to dismiss them for 261. Tahlia McGrath was the top scorer with 73 runs from 177 deliveries. Sneh Rana starred with the ball, claiming four wickets for India, while Rajeshwari Gayakwad and Harmanpreet Kaur secured two wickets each.