Healy Signs Off in Style: Australia Dominate India in ODI Farewell

Hobart, Tasmania – Australian captain Alyssa Healy delivered a breathtaking performance in her final One Day International (ODI), smashing 158 runs off 98 balls to lead her team to a commanding 185-run victory over India at Bellerive Oval on Sunday. The win secured a 3-0 series sweep for Australia and ensured they cannot be beaten in the multi-format series, with only the Perth Test remaining.

Healy’s Farewell Masterclass

Healy’s innings was a display of power hitting, featuring 27 fours and two sixes. It was the highest women’s ODI score against India and the highest women’s ODI innings in Australia. She reached her eighth ODI century off just 79 balls, equaling Karen Rolton for the second-most centuries for an Australian woman, trailing only Meg Lanning’s 15. Notably, Healy became only the second woman in ODI history to score a century in her final match, joining Johmari Logtenberg.

Despite battling a calf cramp during her innings, Healy continued to attack the Indian bowlers. She was eventually dismissed for 158, falling just 12 runs short of her highest ODI score.

Mooney Completes the Dominance

Beth Mooney provided solid support, finishing with an unbeaten 106 off 84 balls. The pair formed a 145-run partnership, further solidifying Australia’s dominant position. Nicola Carey contributed a quickfire 34 not out off 15 balls to push Australia’s total to 7-409, their highest domestic score and only three runs short of their overall record.

India Struggles in Chase

India’s chase faltered from the start, with regular wickets falling and the required run rate climbing steadily. Sneh Rana top-scored for India with 44 runs, but the team was ultimately bowled out for 224 in 45.1 overs. Alana King was the pick of the Australian bowlers, claiming 4-33.

Healy Bowls in Final Act

In a symbolic gesture, Healy bowled the first two overs of her international career, adding to the memorable occasion. She conceded 12 runs.

Series Implications

Australia’s victory completed a 3-0 sweep in the ODI series, following a 2-1 loss in the preceding T20I series. The Australians now lead the multi-format series 8-4, with the final Test match in Perth to approach. Australia has officially retained the overall series trophy.

Guard of Honour and Recognition

The Indian team showed their respect for Healy by forming a guard of honour as she walked out to bat for her final ODI appearance.

Source: ESPNcricinfo, Sydney Morning Herald, Cricket.com.au, Hindustan Times