AUSTRALIA's women's cricket team secured a victory over India in the one-off Test match, marking the final international appearance for captain Alyssa Healy. The contest, a day-night affair at Perth's WACA Ground, concluded within three days.
Australia's bowlers, particularly spinners Alana King and Ashleigh Gardner, were instrumental in wrapping up India's second innings on the final morning, having previously dismissed the visitors for 198 in their first innings. India, resuming their second innings at 105-6 and trailing by 20 runs, failed to set a significant target.
The hosts needed a mere 25 runs to win, a target they achieved in under five overs. Openers Georgia Voll and Phoebe Litchfield comfortably saw Australia home, ensuring Healy's departure from the international stage was on a winning note. Healy herself did not get to bat in the second innings, her dismissal in the first innings having been a brief disappointment on a day marked by broader triumph.
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Day One Tensions and Rebuilding
The match's opening day saw Australia dismiss India for 198. Despite a solid start, India faltered, though Jemimah Rodrigues offered resistance with a half-century. Australia's reply began shakily, losing early wickets including that of captain Healy, who was caught after contributing to a partial rebuild with Ellyse Perry. Perry remained unbeaten at stumps on day one, guiding the team to 96-3.
India's Second Innings Struggles
On the second day, India's batters, including Pratika Rawal and Sneh Rana, attempted to build a lead but were ultimately bowled out for 149 in their second innings. This left Australia with a minimal target. Seamer-friendly conditions on the early days of the match were noted, with the WACA surface described as grassy.
Healy's Legacy and Team Tributes
The series marks the end of a distinguished career for Healy, who has represented Australia in numerous T20 and ODI matches alongside her Test appearances. Teammates, such as Ellyse Perry, acknowledged Healy's significant contribution, with Perry noting her long-time teammate's impact. Healy herself expressed a sentiment of passing the baton, stating, "It’s time for the next generation."
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The one-off Test, played under lights, saw Australia defeat India by 10 wickets at the 'WACA Ground'. The final scoreline underscored Australia's dominance, though the initial stages of the match presented more of a contest. Healy's final Test was a moment of both personal farewell and continued team success.
