India secured a 17-run victory over Australia in the third women’s Twenty20 international in Mumbai, sealing the T20 series 2-1 as part of the multi-format tour. Batting first, India posted a strong total, with Smriti Mandhana scoring a superb 82 to earn player of the match honours.
Australia’s chase faltered under pressure, with spinner Shreyanka Patil claiming the key wickets of Georgia Voll, Ellyse Perry and Annabel Sutherland to halt the home side’s momentum. Only Ashleigh Gardner managed a significant contribution, while the rest of the batting lineup struggled. A turning point came when Phoebe Litchfield was dismissed attempting a switch hit on consecutive balls.
India captain Harmanpreet Kaur set astute field placements, leading to several catches in the deep, whereas Australia’s fielding under captain Sophie Molineux was less effective, with balls landing in empty spaces. The result leaves Australia disappointed, but the series continues with three One-Day Internationals starting Tuesday in Brisbane.
Patil finished with four wickets, and Mandhana’s calm innings proved decisive. Australia needed 17 runs off the final over but could only manage a single, sparking Indian celebrations. The teams now turn their attention to the ODI leg, which promises further entertainment.
