A blistering century from Ellyse Perry powered Australia to a commanding 371/8 against India in the second One Day International at the Allan Border Field in Brisbane. Perry's explosive innings, coupled with Georgia Voll's maiden ODI ton, proved too much for India, who were bowled out for 249, handing Australia an unassailable 2-0 lead in the three-match series. This match wasn't just a victory for Australia; it was a statement. Perry's performance etched her name further into the record books, underscoring her status as one of the greatest all-rounders in the history of the game.
Australia's batting masterclass:
Australia's dominance began with a solid opening partnership between Phoebe Litchfield (60) and Georgia Voll (101). Voll, playing in just her second ODI, showcased remarkable composure as she notched up her first international century. The arrival of Ellyse Perry at the crease shifted the momentum even further in Australia's favor. Perry unleashed a breathtaking display of power hitting, reaching her century off just 72 balls - the fastest ODI hundred ever scored against India women's team. Her innings was studded with seven fours and six sixes, leaving the Indian bowlers struggling for answers.
India's bowling woes:
India's bowling attack endured a tough day, with no bowler able to contain the Australian onslaught. This performance marked India's worst-ever bowling figures in WODI history, conceding a record 371 runs. Saima Thakor was the pick of the bowlers with 3/62, but the overall performance highlighted the need for greater discipline and control in the Indian bowling unit.
India's faltering chase:
Chasing a mammoth target, India never truly found their rhythm. While Richa Ghosh (54) and Jemimah Rodrigues (43) made promising starts, neither could convert their innings into a substantial score. Harmanpreet Kaur (38) also failed to make a significant impact, and despite a late flourish from Minnu Mani (46*), India fell well short of the target.
Perry's record-breaking feat:
Ellyse Perry's innings was not just about its brutality; it was also about its historical significance. This was Perry's third ODI century and propelled her past the 4000-run mark in the format, only the fourth Australian woman to achieve this milestone. Furthermore, she became the first woman cricketer to achieve the incredible double of 7000 runs and 300 wickets in international cricket.
Brief scores:
- Australia: 371/8 in 50 overs (Ellyse Perry 105, Georgia Voll 101, Phoebe Litchfield 60; Saima Thakor 3/62)
- India: 249 all out in 44.5 overs (Richa Ghosh 54, Jemimah Rodrigues 43; Annabel Sutherland 4/38)
This match was a stark reminder of the gulf that currently exists between Australia and India in women's cricket. While Australia displayed ruthless efficiency with both bat and ball, India struggled to match the intensity and skill of their opponents. This defeat should serve as a wake-up call for India, highlighting the areas they need to address if they are to challenge the top teams in the world. For Australia, this victory reinforces their position as the dominant force in women's cricket. With the series already secured, they will be looking to complete a clean sweep in the final ODI.
