Introduction: A Run-Fest for the Ages
The IND-W vs AUS-W 3rd ODI 2025, played on September 20, 2025, at Delhi’s Arun Jaitley Stadium, was a cricketing spectacle that left fans breathless. With 781 runs scored at a blistering rate of over eight per over, this match was a record-breaking thriller that showcased the brilliance of women’s cricket. Australia Women clinched a 43-run victory, posting a mammoth 412/10, powered by Beth Mooney’s 57-ball century. India Women responded with a fearless chase, led by Smriti Mandhana’s record-setting 50-ball century, but fell short at 369/10. The 2-1 series win cemented Australia’s dominance, maintaining their unbeaten record in bilateral ODI series against India since 1984.
This match wasn’t just about runs; it was a preview of the intensity expected at the Women’s World Cup 2025, starting in just ten days. From Mooney’s gap-finding masterclass to Mandhana’s boundary-hitting spree, the game had it all—drama, records, and lessons for both teams. In this article, we dive deep into the India Women vs Australia Women 3rd ODI, breaking down every key moment, record, and tactical nuance. Keep reading to relive the excitement and see how this epic clash sets the stage for the World Cup. What was your favorite moment from this Delhi thriller? Share in the comments below!
Match Summary: 781 Runs in Delhi’s Cauldron
The IND-W vs AUS-W 3rd ODI 2025 was a run-fest that pushed the boundaries of women’s ODI cricket. Australia, opting to bat first after Alyssa Healy’s toss win, posted a colossal 412/10 in 47.5 overs, equalling their highest-ever ODI total. Beth Mooney’s 138 off 75 balls, including a 57-ball century, was the cornerstone, supported by Georgia Voll’s 81 and Ellyse Perry’s 68. India’s fielding errors, including 26 runs off 11 misfields (per ESPNcricinfo), inflated the total.
India’s chase of 413 was nothing short of electrifying. Smriti Mandhana led with a jaw-dropping 125 off 63 balls, smashing the record for the fastest century by an Indian in ODIs (50 balls). Harmanpreet Kaur (52 off 35) and Deepti Sharma (72 off 58) kept India in the hunt, but a middle-order collapse and Australia’s disciplined bowling, led by Kim Garth (3-69), sealed a 43-run victory. The match saw 781 runs, two centuries, and the highest chase total in women’s ODIs.
Scorecard Summary
| Team | Score | Top Batters | Top Bowlers |
|---|---|---|---|
| Australia Women | 412/10 (47.5 ov) | Beth Mooney (138), Georgia Voll (81), Ellyse Perry (68) | Arundhati Reddy (3-86), Deepti Sharma (2-75) |
| India Women | 369/10 (47 ov) | Smriti Mandhana (125), Deepti Sharma (72), Harmanpreet Kaur (52) | Kim Garth (3-69), Megan Schutt (2-53) |
Australia’s Batting Masterclass: Mooney’s Blitz
IND-W vs AUS-W 3rd ODI 2025 Australia’s decision to bat first on a flat Delhi pitch was a masterstroke by captain Alyssa Healy, who wanted India to “run around in the heat.” The result was a batting display that overwhelmed India’s bowlers, with Beth Mooney stealing the show.
Early Aggression Sets the Tone
Healy kicked things off with a fiery 30 off 18 balls, smashing seven fours. Her assault on India’s new-ball bowlers, Kranti Gaud and Renuka Singh, saw Australia race to 43/1 in 4.2 overs. Georgia Voll, dropped thrice by India, capitalized with a fluent 81 off 68 balls, including 14 fours. Her 107-run stand with Ellyse Perry (68 off 72) took Australia to 150/2 by the 21st over.
Mooney’s Record-Breaking Century
Enter Beth Mooney, whose 138 off 75 balls was a masterclass in precision and power. Her 57-ball century, briefly the joint second-fastest in women’s ODIs, featured 23 fours and a six. Mooney’s ability to find gaps and maintain a strike rate of 184.00 was pivotal. She shared a 106-run stand with Perry and an 82-run partnership with Ashleigh Gardner (39 off 24). Australia’s 334/3 after 40 overs seemed destined for 430, but a late collapse (6 wickets for 34 runs) saw them bowled out in 47.5 overs.
India’s Fielding Woes
India’s fielding was a weak link, with three dropped catches off Voll and 26 runs conceded via misfields. ESPNcricinfo logs highlight these errors as a turning point, inflating Australia’s total. Arundhati Reddy (3-86) and Deepti Sharma (2-75) were the pick of the bowlers, but the rest struggled on a batter-friendly pitch.
Mooney on her innings: “It was a really nice wicket. Volly and Pez got us off to a great start, and I just wanted to keep the momentum going. We were aiming for 430 or 450, but we’ll take 412.”
Key Partnerships
| Wicket | Players | Runs | Balls |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2nd | Georgia Voll – Ellyse Perry | 107 | 101 |
| 3rd | Ellyse Perry – Beth Mooney | 106 | 71 |
| 4th | Beth Mooney – Ashleigh Gardner | 82 | 44 |
Australia’s Innings Milestones
| Milestone | Overs | Balls |
|---|---|---|
| 50 runs | 5.6 | 37 |
| 100 runs | 13.3 | 82 |
| 300 runs | 37.1 | 227 |
| 400 runs | 46.4 | 284 |
India’s Valiant Chase: Mandhana’s Record Century
IND-W vs AUS-W 3rd ODI 2025 Chasing 413, India Women unleashed a fearless assault, led by Smriti Mandhana’s fastest century in ODI history by an Indian (50 balls). Their 369/10 in 47 overs was the highest total in a women’s ODI chase, but it wasn’t enough to topple Australia.
Explosive Powerplay
Mandhana set the tone early, smashing three consecutive fours off Megan Schutt in the third over. India’s powerplay yielded 96/2, the second-highest in women’s ODIs. Pratika Rawal fell early for 10, but Mandhana’s 23-ball fifty, including nine fours and two sixes, kept India ahead of the required rate. Harleen Deol’s brief 11 off 14 ended in the 9th over, but the stage was set for a historic chase.
Mandhana-Harmanpreet Fireworks
Mandhana and captain Harmanpreet Kaur (52 off 35) added 121 runs in 69 balls for the third wicket. Mandhana’s 100 off 50 balls, with 14 fours and four sixes, broke Virat Kohli’s record for the fastest Indian ODI century. Harmanpreet’s silken 32-ball fifty complemented Mandhana’s aggression, taking India to 204/2 after 20 overs—well on track for the target.
Collapse and Deepti’s Fightback
Harmanpreet’s knee injury break disrupted India’s momentum, leading to her dismissal (lbw to Kim Garth) and Mandhana’s fall in consecutive overs. Richa Ghosh’s run-out for 6 and quick wickets of Radha Yadav (18) and Arundhati Reddy (10) saw India slump to 261/6 by the 29th over. Deepti Sharma’s counter-attacking 72 off 58 balls, her fastest knock above 20 runs (strike rate 124.13), and a 65-run stand with Sneh Rana (35 off 41) reignited hopes. With 59 needed off 46 balls, Deepti’s dismissal to deep midwicket ended India’s dream.
Mandhana on her knock: “When chasing 400, you have no choice but to play that brand of cricket. I just focused on reacting to the ball and keeping it simple.”
Key Partnerships
| Wicket | Players | Runs | Balls |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3rd | Smriti Mandhana – Harmanpreet Kaur | 121 | 69 |
| 8th | Deepti Sharma – Sneh Rana | 65 | 54 |
India’s Innings Milestones
| Milestone | Overs | Balls |
|---|---|---|
| 50 runs | 4.5 | 29 |
| 100 runs | 10.2 | 62 |
| 200 runs | 19.3 | 117 |
| 350 runs | 41.4 | 250 |
Key Records and Milestones Broken
The IND-W vs AUS-W 3rd ODI 2025 was a record-breaking affair, cementing its place in cricket history.
- Fastest Indian ODI Century: Smriti Mandhana’s 50-ball 125 surpassed Virat Kohli’s 52-ball record and Mooney’s 57-ball effort in the same match.
- Highest Women’s ODI Chase Total: India’s 369/10 was the highest total in a women’s ODI chase, though it fell 43 runs short.
- Australia’s Highest Total vs India: Australia’s 412/10 was the highest women’s ODI total against India and the seventh 400+ score in the format.
- Powerplay Record: India’s 96/2 in the first 10 overs was the second-highest powerplay total in women’s ODIs.
- Mandhana’s Milestone: Her 125 was her ninth ODI century, reinforcing her status among the format’s elite.
- Australia’s Unbeaten Streak: The win maintained Australia’s perfect record in bilateral ODI series in India since 1984.
Mandhana vs. Mooney Century Comparison
| Player | Runs | Balls | 4s | 6s | Strike Rate |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Smriti Mandhana | 125 | 63 | 17 | 5 | 198.41 |
| Beth Mooney | 138 | 75 | 23 | 1 | 184.00 |
Tactical Analysis: What Worked, What Didn’t
The India Women vs Australia Women 3rd ODI showcased contrasting strategies, with Australia’s execution proving decisive.
Australia’s Winning Formula
- Aggressive Batting: Healy’s intent to exploit the flat pitch and India’s fielding weaknesses paid off. Mooney’s risk-free aggression and Voll’s reprieves helped Australia post a daunting total.
- Adaptive Bowling: Facing India’s explosive start, Australia switched to T20-style bowling early. Kim Garth’s 3-69, including the wickets of Harmanpreet and Mandhana, was crucial. As Garth noted, “I’ve never had to go to T20 death bowling in the 3rd or 4th over. Taking quick wickets swung the momentum.”
- Middle-Order Breakthrough: Australia’s persistence in the middle overs, despite India’s 204/2, led to a collapse that sealed the game.
India’s Highs and Lows
- Fearless Chase: Mandhana’s ultra-aggressive approach, backed by Harmanpreet, gave India a shot at the 413-run target. Their powerplay (96/2) was a statement of intent.
- Fielding Lapses: Dropped catches (three off Voll) and 26 runs off misfields inflated Australia’s total. Fielding remains a concern under coach Amol Muzumdar.
- Middle-Order Fragility: The rapid fall of wickets post-Harmanpreet’s injury (206/2 to 261/6) highlighted India’s reliance on their top order. Deepti’s 72 showed depth, but others like Richa Ghosh underperformed.
Could India have won with sharper fielding? India Women vs Australia Women 3rd ODI The 26 extra runs and dropped chances suggest a closer contest was possible. As we approach the Women’s World Cup, India must address these lapses.
World Cup Implications:
- Australia: Their ability to post and defend 400+ totals reinforces their status as favorites. Mooney’s form and bowling adaptability are key strengths.
- India: Mandhana’s brilliance and Deepti’s resilience signal potential, but fielding improvements are critical for a home World Cup.
Standout Performers and Their Words
IND-W vs AUS-W 3rd ODI 2025 The match produced stellar individual performances, with players from both sides leaving their mark.
- Beth Mooney (Player of the Match): Her 138 off 75 balls was a game-changer. “We were just out there batting, picking off the bowlers where we could. Playing in these conditions is important for the World Cup.”
- Smriti Mandhana (Player of the Series): Her 125 and 300 series runs earned her the award. “The outfield was fast, and we knew we’d get value for our shots. It was a good game for women’s cricket.”
- Deepti Sharma: Her 72 off 58 balls kept India alive. Her all-round contribution (2-75 bowling) was vital.
- Kim Garth: Her 3-69, including key wickets, turned the game. “Smriti is an incredible player. You just have to put your best ball and hope for the best.”
- Harmanpreet Kaur: Her 52 off 35 was crucial, but her injury sparked the collapse. “We played good cricket, but fielding is something we’re working hard on.”
- Alyssa Healy: Her early aggression (30 off 18) set the tone. “It was one of the flattest wickets I’ve played on. We approached it like a T20.”
Player Stats Overview
| Player | Team | Batting | Bowling |
|---|---|---|---|
| Beth Mooney | AUS-W | 138 (75b, 23×4, 1×6) | – |
| Smriti Mandhana | IND-W | 125 (63b, 17×4, 5×6) | – |
| Deepti Sharma | IND-W | 72 (58b, 5×4, 2×6) | 2-75 (10 ov) |
| Kim Garth | AUS-W | 1 (2b) | 3-69 (9 ov) |
World Cup 2025 Implications
IND-W vs AUS-W 3rd ODI 2025 With the Women’s World Cup 2025 starting on September 30, 2025, in Guwahati, this match offered a glimpse of what’s to come. Australia’s 2-1 series win reinforces their dominance, with Mooney’s form, Perry’s consistency, and Garth’s bowling adaptability making them favorites. Their ability to handle flat pitches bodes well for similar World Cup conditions.
India Women vs Australia Women 3rd ODI India, despite the loss, showed they can challenge the best. Mandhana’s record-breaking century and Deepti’s all-round brilliance highlight their batting depth. However, fielding remains a concern, as seen in their 26-run concession via errors. With a home World Cup looming, India’s ability to address these lapses could make them serious contenders.
What can India learn from this match? Sharper fielding and a more resilient middle order will be key to their World Cup campaign. Follow our Women’s World Cup 2025 Preview for more insights!
Conclusion: A Thrilling Prelude to the World Cup
The IND-W vs AUS-W 3rd ODI 2025 was a cricketing extravaganza that showcased the best of women’s ODI cricket. From Beth Mooney’s 57-ball century to Smriti Mandhana’s record-breaking 50-ball ton, the match was a testament to the sport’s growing intensity. Australia’s 43-run victory and 2-1 series triumph underlined their championship pedigree, while India’s valiant chase signaled their potential to shine at home.
As the Women’s World Cup 2025 approaches, this Delhi thriller sets the stage for an exciting tournament. Will India bounce back in Guwahati? Can Australia defend their crown? Share your thoughts in the comments and follow IPL Star for exclusive World Cup coverage.
FAQs: Your Questions Answered About IND-W vs AUS-W 3rd ODI 2025
1. What happened in the IND-W vs AUS-W 3rd ODI 2025? Australia Women won by 43 runs in a high-scoring thriller at Arun Jaitley Stadium, Delhi, on September 20, 2025. IND-W vs AUS-W 3rd ODI 2025 They posted 412/10, led by Beth Mooney’s 138, while India Women scored 369/10, with Smriti Mandhana’s 125. The match sealed Australia’s 2-1 series win, maintaining their unbeaten record in bilateral ODI series against India.
2. Who scored the fastest century in the IND-W vs AUS-W 3rd ODI 2025? Smriti Mandhana smashed the fastest century by an Indian in ODIs, reaching 100 off 50 balls, surpassing Virat Kohli’s 52-ball record. IND-W vs AUS-W 3rd ODI 2025 Her 125 off 63 balls included 17 fours and five sixes, outpacing Beth Mooney’s 57-ball century in the same match.
3. Why did India lose despite Smriti Mandhana’s fastest century? IND-W vs AUS-W 3rd ODI 2025 India’s chase of 413 faltered due to a middle-order collapse from 206/2 to 261/6, triggered by Harmanpreet Kaur’s injury and quick wickets by Kim Garth (3-69). Fielding errors, costing 26 runs, also inflated Australia’s total, making the target unattainable.
4. What records were broken in the IND-W vs AUS-W 3rd ODI highlights? IND-W vs AUS-W 3rd ODI 2025 The match saw multiple records: Mandhana’s 50-ball century, India’s 369/10 as the highest women’s ODI chase total, Australia’s 412/10 as their highest against India, and India’s 96/2 powerplay as the second-highest in women’s ODIs.
5. How did Beth Mooney’s century impact the match? Beth Mooney’s 138 off 75 balls, including a 57-ball century, powered Australia to 412/10. IND-W vs AUS-W 3rd ODI 2025 Her partnerships with Ellyse Perry (106 runs) and Ashleigh Gardner (82 runs) set a daunting target, earning her the Player of the Match award.
6. What was the highest total in the India Women vs Australia Women 3rd ODI? Australia Women’s 412/10 in 47.5 overs was the highest total, equalling their record for the highest women’s ODI score. IND-W vs AUS-W 3rd ODI 2025 It was also the highest total India has conceded in the format.
7. How does the IND-W vs AUS-W 3rd ODI 2025 affect the Women’s World Cup 2025? Australia’s series win reinforces their dominance, with Mooney’s form and adaptive bowling as key strengths. IND-W vs AUS-W 3rd ODI 2025 India’s batting depth, led by Mandhana, is promising, but fielding issues need addressing before their World Cup opener on September 30, 2025.
8. Who were the standout performers in the record-breaking women’s ODI Delhi? Smriti Mandhana (125), Beth Mooney (138), IND-W vs AUS-W 3rd ODI 2025 Deepti Sharma (72 and 2-75), and Kim Garth (3-69) shone. Mandhana’s 300 series runs earned her the Player of the Series award.
9. How did India Women chase 413 in the 3rd ODI? IND-W vs AUS-W 3rd ODI 2025 India started aggressively, reaching 96/2 in the powerplay, led by Mandhana’s 50-ball century and Harmanpreet’s 52. Deepti Sharma’s 72 and a 65-run stand with Sneh Rana kept hopes alive, but quick wickets derailed the chase.
10. Where can I find more IND-W vs AUS-W 3rd ODI highlights? Visit IPL Star for detailed match analysis, player profiles, and Women’s World Cup 2025 updates. IND-W vs AUS-W 3rd ODI 2025 Share your favorite moment in the comments or follow us for exclusive cricket content!