Megan Schutt’s Career-Best 5/19 Leads Australia to Comprehensive ODI Win Over India
Brisbane, Dec 5: Megan Schutt delivered a career-best performance of 5/19 to dismantle India’s top order, guiding Australia to a dominant five-wicket victory in the first ODI of their series at Allan Border Field on Thursday.
Opting to bat first, India’s batting lineup never found its rhythm, struggling against Schutt and the Australian bowlers. They were bowled out for just 100 runs, marking their lowest total in ODIs since 2012.
Schutt’s impressive spell began by removing openers Smriti Mandhana and Priya Punia. Harleen Doel (19) followed soon after, dismissed by Ashleigh Gardner. The collapse continued with Harmanpreet Kaur (17) trapped lbw by Annabel Sutherland, and Jemimah Rodrigues (4) was bowled by Kim Garth. India lost their final six wickets for just 11 runs, crumbling to 100 all out in 34.2 overs.
In response, debutant Georgia Voll played a composed knock of 46* off 42 balls, ensuring Australia reached the target in just 17 overs despite losing five wickets. She was supported by Phoebe Litchfield, who contributed 35 runs. Australia’s chase looked comfortable until Renuka Singh Thakur sparked a dramatic turnaround, taking three quick wickets to reduce Australia to 52/3. However, Voll’s calm batting saw Australia over the line to take a 1-0 lead in the three-match series.
With the victory, Australia maintained their top spot in the ICC Women’s Championship standings with 30 points, while India remained in third with 25 points. The second ODI is scheduled for Sunday at the same venue.
Brief Scores:
India: 100 (Jemimah Rodrigues 23, Megan Schutt 5-19, Annabel Sutherland 1-13)
Australia: 102/5 (Georgia Voll 46* not out, Phoebe Litchfield 35, Renuka Singh Thakur 3-45, Priya Mishra 2-11)
Australia won by five wickets.
