With the Women’s World Cup around the corner, India will look to settle scores against Australia in the three-match ODI series starting Sunday. The contest doubles up as crucial preparation and a chance to erase the memories of their 0-3 loss in Australia last December.
Building momentum
Since that series defeat, India have stitched together a strong run. They swept Ireland 3-0 at home, won a tri-series in Sri Lanka that featured South Africa, and edged out England across formats with a 3-2 T20I win and a 2-1 ODI success. That consistency has lifted the team’s confidence heading into the World Cup, and this series provides the final opportunity to fine-tune combinations.
Key returns and balance
India will be boosted by the return of pacer Renuka Singh, who missed nine months with a stress fracture. Chief selector Neetu David described her as a “precious player” and one central to India’s seam attack. Alongside Renuka, Kranti Goud and Arundhati Reddy are expected to share the new-ball duties. The spin department, featuring Sneh Rana, Deepti Sharma, Radha Yadav and youngster N Sree Charani, offers variety and depth. Batting remains anchored by Smriti Mandhana at the top, with Jemimah Rodrigues, Harleen Deol and skipper Harmanpreet Kaur forming the middle-order core.
Australia’s stability
Seven-time champions Australia arrive with a largely settled unit. Captain Tahlia McGrath underlined the depth of the squad, while Beth Mooney continues to be the key run-getter. Megan Schutt will spearhead the pace attack, supported by the all-round abilities of Ellyse Perry and Ashleigh Gardner. Despite not playing since the Ashes in February, Australia remain formidable opponents, capable of testing India in home conditions.
The first two ODIs are scheduled in Mullanpur, followed by the decider in New Delhi on September 20. For India, the series is more than just a tune-up — it is a chance to measure themselves against the best before the World Cup spotlight turns firmly on them.
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