India vs Australia: 'Catches Win Matches' Has Never Rung So True

The India vs Australia clash will be remembered as one of the greatest run chases in women's cricket history. Yet, questions linger over whether Australia's fielding cost them the game. For a team known for its discipline and perfection, such lapses were almost unthinkable.

Many believed Australia's defeat was impossible. The reigning all-format champions were widely described as “invincible” and “unstoppable.” Those labels now seem less certain. It was fair to call Australia the favourites, and they probably should have been the ones advancing to the final.

Instead, India made history by completing the highest successful run chase in women’s ODI cricket, overtaking Australia’s own record set just 18 days earlier. This stunning performance will long be hailed as one of the sport’s finest achievements.

Rodrigues and Kaur Lead a Historic Chase

Jemimah Rodrigues delivered a match-winning unbeaten 127, while captain Harmanpreet Kaur contributed a crucial 89. Their partnership overcame Australia's formidable total of 338, sealing victory with nine balls to spare.

Missed Chances Cost Australia

Despite their strong start, Australia allowed the game to slip away. They missed three golden opportunities to dismiss the match-winning pair of Kaur and Rodrigues.

“The first was a routine stumping with Kaur on 10, fumbled by Alyssa Healy.”

Those missed chances may forever define Australia’s defeat—a painful reminder that, in cricket, catches truly do win matches.

Author’s Summary

India’s record-breaking chase against Australia redefined women’s cricket, proving that even dominant teams can falter when precision and focus are lost in key moments.

Sports Gazette — 2025-11-01