Australia Level Series with 19-Run Win at Canberra, Adelaide Decider Awaits

Australia Women produced a commanding comeback to defeat India Women by 19 runs in the second T20I in Canberra, levelling the three-match series and forcing a decisive finale in Adelaide. The victory halted India’s momentum after their rain-affected win in the opener and reaffirmed Australia’s status as one of the sport’s most consistent sides. The match forms part of the India Women’s tour of Australia 2025–26 , a multi-format contest running from mid-February to early March, with the T20I leg serving as vital preparation ahead of the 2026 ICC Women’s T20 World Cup .

Australia’s triumph was built on a record 128-run opening stand between Georgia Voll and Beth Mooney , the highest first-wicket partnership for Australia against India in women’s T20Is. Voll led the charge with a superb 88 , showcasing confident strokeplay and precise placement, while Mooney’s composed 46 ensured stability. Their effort powered Australia to 163/5 , a total that proved defendable despite late resistance. India seamer Arundhati Reddy struck twice to remove both openers and briefly keep the visitors in contention.

India’s chase began briskly as Shafali Verma and Smriti Mandhana attacked in the powerplay, putting the target within reach. However, captain Sophie Molineux triggered the slowdown by dismissing Shafali, while Ashleigh Gardner removed Jemimah Rodrigues and later delivered crucial blows in the death overs. Mandhana’s dismissal further dented momentum, leaving India struggling to maintain the required scoring rate.

With the chase faltering at 71/3 , Harmanpreet Kaur and Richa Ghosh rebuilt with a valuable 55-run partnership , briefly reviving hopes. Yet the rising asking rate forced risks, and Australia seized control in the closing stages. Harmanpreet fell in the 17th over, Ghosh was stumped soon after, and India’s innings unravelled dramatically as they lost six wickets for seven runs to finish at 144/9 . Gardner led the bowling with 3/22 , while Annabel Sutherland and Kim Garth provided crucial support.

Tactically, Australia’s success stemmed from neutralising India’s new-ball threat, applying middle-overs pressure through disciplined bowling, and executing clinical death-over plans. India’s aggressive start highlighted their batting firepower, but the middle-order slowdown and late collapse exposed finishing vulnerabilities an area requiring attention ahead of global tournaments.

The series now heads to Adelaide for a winner-takes-all decider, with Australia aiming to maintain their dominance and India seeking consistency through the middle overs. With preparation for global events, ranking momentum and rivalry pride at stake, the final clash promises a high-quality contest between two leading forces in women’s cricket.