Australia Women began their T20 World Cup 2026 campaign with a commanding eight-wicket victory over India at the Sydney Cricket Ground on Monday. Chasing 143 for victory, the defending champions reached 144 for two with 12 balls to spare, powered by an unbeaten 74 from opener Beth Mooney.
Clinical Chase Led by Mooney
Mooney's innings came off 55 balls, including 11 boundaries, as she anchored the chase after early wickets. She shared a crucial 89-run partnership with Ellyse Perry, who contributed a steady 38 not out from 31 deliveries. The pair guided Australia home after India had posted 142 for six in their 20 overs.
India's innings was built around a half-century from opener Smriti Mandhana, who scored 67 from 48 balls. However, Australia's bowlers, led by Megan Schutt (2-24), pulled things back in the middle overs to restrict India to a modest total.
Key Moments in the Match
Australia's fielding was sharp, with a direct hit run-out of Jemimah Rodrigues early in the innings. The home side also used five bowlers, with spinners Jess Jonassen and Ashleigh Gardner keeping the scoring rate in check. India's total looked competitive at the halfway stage, but Australia's batting depth proved too strong.
"I thought we were really clinical with the ball and in the field," said Australian captain Alyssa Healy. "To restrict them to 142 was a great effort, and then Beth and Ellyse were outstanding with the bat."
India's Batting Struggles
Mandhana's innings was the standout for India, but she lacked support from the other end. The next highest score was 21 from Richa Ghosh, as wickets fell at regular intervals. India's total of 142 for six was their lowest against Australia in T20Is since 2020.
"We were probably 15-20 runs short," said India captain Harmanpreet Kaur. "We didn't get the partnerships going, and credit to Australia for bowling well in the middle overs."
World Cup Defense Starts Strongly
Australia, the most successful team in women's T20 World Cup history with six titles, have now won their opening match of the tournament for the seventh consecutive time. They next face South Africa on Thursday, while India will look to bounce back against Pakistan.
The win extends Australia's unbeaten run in T20 World Cup group stages to 15 matches, a testament to their dominance in the format.
