Mandhana Masterclass: India Clinches Historic T20I Series Victory in Australia
ADELAIDE – India Women secured a landmark series victory against Australia Women on Sunday, defeating the hosts by 17 runs in the deciding Twenty20 International at the Adelaide Oval. Spearheaded by a commanding half-century from vice-captain Smriti Mandhana, India posted a formidable total before a disciplined bowling effort restricted the world champions.
Match Summary: India vs Australia Women
The victory handed India a crucial lead in the multi-format series, driven by a record-breaking partnership between Mandhana and Jemimah Rodrigues. The win marks a significant psychological breakthrough for the visitors ahead of the upcoming ODI fixtures.
Scorecard Snapshot
| Team | Score | Top Performers |
|---|---|---|
| India Women | 176/6 (20 overs) | Smriti Mandhana 82 (55), Jemimah Rodrigues 59 |
| Australia Women | 159/9 (20 overs) | Ashleigh Gardner 57, Bowling: India Spin Attack |
| Result | India Women won by 17 runs | |
Mandhana and Rodrigues Dismantle Australian Attack
After being asked to bat, India faced early pressure before Mandhana and Rodrigues joined forces. The duo constructed a match-winning 121-run partnership, shifting the momentum aggressively in the middle overs. Mandhana, named Player of the Match, anchored the innings with a fluent 82 off 55 balls, while Rodrigues accelerated the scoring with a brisk 59.
Reflecting on the partnership, Mandhana highlighted Rodrigues’ critical role in settling the nerves. “When she came in, I think I was 16-ball 15 and still getting my timing,” Mandhana said in the post-match presentation. “She came in, got three or four boundaries, got the momentum going, and I could take some time.”
This tactical switch allowed Mandhana to accelerate later in the innings, capitalizing on the platform set by Rodrigues’ early aggression.
‘Beating Australia in Australia is Special’
The victory holds substantial weight for an Indian side looking to establish dominance away from home. Mandhana described the win as a significant milestone for the current squad, distinguishing it from previous tours.
“It was good to contribute to the series win. I think beating Australia in Australia is something really special,” Mandhana remarked. While acknowledging India’s T20 success during the 2016 tour, she noted the importance of this win given the long gap between T20 fixtures in the country. “We’ve played T20 after a very long time in Australia, so beating them is really nice.”
Bowling Discipline Seals the Deal
Defending 176, India’s bowlers applied consistent pressure, picking up wickets at regular intervals. Despite a resilient 57 from Australian all-rounder Ashleigh Gardner, the hosts struggled to build partnerships. The fielding unit supported the bowlers effectively, with Rodrigues contributing a stunning diving catch that epitomized the team’s energy.
Australia finished on 159/9, falling short by 17 runs as India’s spin department controlled the middle overs and stifled the run chase.
Key Statistics
- Partnership: 121 runs (Mandhana & Rodrigues)
- Target Defended: 176
- Series Status: India leads multi-format series 4-2
Focus Shifts to ODI Series
Despite the celebrations, the Indian camp remains focused on the remaining fixtures. The team aims to carry this momentum into the One Day International series starting Tuesday, February 24. “We will move on to the ODI series and not celebrate too much,” Mandhana stated, emphasizing the need for consistency.
For official schedules and detailed match statistics, visit the International Cricket Council (ICC) or BCCI official websites. Follow series updates at Cricket Australia.