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India vs Australia Preview: Bowling Challenges, Key Matchups, and the 15-Match Dominance Streak
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India vs Australia Preview: Bowling Challenges, Key Matchups, and the 15-Match Dominance Streak
Australia continue to exhibit unparalleled dominance in the current ICC Women’s World Cup 2025. From converting potential losses into record-breaking wins to being consistent across formats, the defending champions have been unbeatable. Their 15-match World Cup winning streak now matches their own record between 1997 and 2000, highlighting their dominance of international women’s cricket.
Though struggling initially in some matches, Australia have managed to win comfortably in the end. Against Pakistan, they overcame a nervous 115/8 to thrash Pakistan by 107 runs. Against England, they chased down 245 with plenty of ease, with almost 10 overs left in hand. Their previous World Cup loss was in 2017 — against India — when Harmanpreet Kaur’s iconic 171* devastated the Aussies. That memory still continues to motivate India’s confidence going into this crucial semifinal battle.
India’s Quest for the Optimal Combination
India have had an inconsistent campaign — good in patches, but still to discover the right balance. Presently fourth on the table, they have not been comprehensively outplayed in any game. Nevertheless, varied team combinations have cost them dearly.
Injuries have compelled the top changes — in the absence of Pratika Rawal, Shafali Verma is likely to replace her. India may stick with their old combination or include Amanjot Kaur for all-around skills. Harleen Deol’s strike rate has decreased, and she could face the axe. Though there have been moments of magic, India’s inability to seal matches remains their biggest challenge.
Bowling Struggles Continue for India
India’s bowling group has been a problem throughout the competition. They’ve given away runs at the rate of 5.25 per over — one of the worst among semifinalists. Their economy rate and average lag far behind Australia, England, and South Africa.
India’s pacers, in particular, have found it tough, conceding boundaries to all and sundry every six balls to the top teams. The absence of dependable fast-bowling talent has restricted captain Harmanpreet Kaur’s options at key times — something that Australia’s deep batting order will try to take advantage of.
Australia’s Edge: Left-Arm Spin Threat
The biggest test for India has been confronting left-arm spin. Players such as Sophie Molineux and Sophie Ecclestone have continued to test India’s weakness. Australian spinners have been ruthless in the middle overs with immaculate control and striking at regular intervals.
India have lost 17 wickets to left-arm spin in this tournament alone — more than any other team. Players such as Smriti Mandhana, Harleen Deol, and Harmanpreet Kaur will need to rise to the occasion if India are to neutralize this threat.
Key Player Battles to Watch
Healy vs Kranti Goud:
Alyssa Healy’s aggressive beginning may be tested by Kranti Goud, who has sent her back multiple times in recent ODIs. Should Goud get early swing, this match might determine the momentum.
Mandhana vs Gardner:
India’s batting pillar Smriti Mandhana takes on Australia’s best all-rounder Ashleigh Gardner. While Gardner has dominated in previous meetings, Mandhana’s recent record against off-spin (SR 113.5 since 2024) provides hope for India.
Rodrigues vs King:
Jemimah Rodrigues has been impressive against spin, particularly leg-spinner Alana King, whom she’s yet to be dismissed by in ODIs. Rodrigues’ strike rotation ability can be very important in dulling Australia’s spin assault.
What to Expect
Australia are still the favourites — a side who never allow pressure to disrupt their momentum. India, though, have the history going in their favour, having broken two of Australia’s biggest runs in past tournaments. If India can post a good score and keep their bowlers in check, another classic battle is on the cards.
For more updates, visit www.crickethighlights.online
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