The high voltage trio ODI series between Australia and India kicks off on Thursday December 5 at Allan Border Field in Brisbane. The second ODI will also be played at the same venue on December 8, before the teams travel west to Perth for the series finale on December 11.
India aims to change history
It is worth noting that India have historically struggled in women’s ODIs on Australian soil, winning just four out of 16 matches. However, the Indian team will be determined to turn this story around in the upcoming series. With a mix of experienced players and exciting young talent, India will look to challenge the dominant Australian team and make a statement on their tour. The team’s recent performances in international cricket have shown a lot of promise and they will be keen to rewrite the narrative and create a new chapter in their ODI history against Australia.
Australia’s focus on continued dominance
On the other hand, Australia come into the series with an impressive record after convincingly defeating India 3-0 in their previous encounter earlier this year. The hosts are well equipped with a depth of talent in both batting and bowling and will aim to continue their dominance in women’s ODIs. With their strong track record in day-night cricket and a reputation for being a tough team at home, Australia will look to maintain their dominance and secure another series win against India. Their focus will be to use their experience and skills to extend their winning streak.
Let’s delve into five key player battles that promise to add an extra layer of excitement to the series and could play a pivotal role in shaping the outcome of these hotly contested matches. These feuds between top players from both teams will likely affect the momentum and direction of the games, making them crucial to watch.
READ ALSO: AUS-W vs IND-W 2024: India’s best XI for ODI series against Australia
5 key battles to watch out for in AUS vs IND Women ODI series
1. Beth Mooney vs Renuka Singh Thakur
Australia’s mainstay Beth Mooney renowned for her exceptional consistency, adaptability and ability to anchor the innings under pressure. Her ability to penetrate gaps and seamlessly rotate the strike makes her a critical asset at the top of the order. Her challenge will be India’s pace spearhead Renuka Singh Thakurwhich brings sharp swing and accuracy to the new ball. Renuka’s ability to pull off moves in the air and off the pitch will be a stern test of Mooney’s composure and technique. This head-on clash on the powerplay could set the tone for the entire game as both players look to assert their dominance early on.
2. Smriti Mandhana vs Megan Schutt
Smriti Mandanaa mainstay of the Indian batting line-up, she combines elegance with aggression, making her one of the most feared players in women’s cricket. Taking it upon herself to stop her will be Australia’s swing specialist Megan Shuteknown for her ability to outwit foxes with deceptive variations and pinpoint accuracy. Schutt’s record against left-handers adds an extra layer of intrigue to this battle, as Mandhana’s aggressive intent will have to navigate Schutt’s crafty deliveries. The outcome of this contest could greatly affect India’s start and set the stage for a big or successful chase.
3. Harmanpreet Kaur vs Annabel Sutherland
Indian captain Harmanpreet Kaurhis explosive batting, capable of changing games in a matter of overs, will struggle against Australia’s promising hotshot Annabelle Sutherland. Sutherland’s sharp pace, bounce and tactical approach to bowling make her a key weapon for Australia in the middle overs. On the other hand, Harmanpreet’s ability to fight back and find gaps under pressure will be crucial for India to maintain the momentum. This battle of experience vs. youthful exuberance will likely play out at crucial moments, potentially determining the trajectory of the game.
4. Ellyse Perry vs Deepti Sharma
Two of the best all-rounders in the game right now, Ellyse Perry and Deepti Sharmaare gearing up for a riveting contest that could determine the balance of power between the two sides. Perry’s elegant batting and ability to accelerate the innings make her a lynchpin for Australia, while her accurate seam bowling adds another dimension. Deepti, known for her economical off-spin and icy temperament, is equally adept at absorbing pressure with the bat. This duel between versatile players will be a chess match as both aim to outplay each other at crucial stages of the match.
5. Phoebe Litchfield vs Radha Yadav
Phoebe LitchfieldAustralia’s rising star, has already made a name for herself with her fearless batting and innovative game. Her challenge will come in the form of India’s crafty left-armer Radha Yadavwhose variations and guile can unsettle even the most set of beaters. Radha’s ability to adjust her line and length based on the batter’s approach will be instrumental in limiting Litchfield’s free-flowing game. This thrilling match in the middle overs could determine whether Australia can maintain a consistent scoring rate or falter under India’s disciplined bowling attack.
Also READ: AUS-W vs IND-W 2024 ODI series: Broadcast, live streaming details – When and where to watch in India, Australia, UK, USA and other countries
This article was first published on WomenCricket.coma Cricket Times company.
