The 11-5 scoreline on points doesn’t tell the full story of the first multi-format series between Australia and India. On paper, India won...
The 11-5 scoreline on points doesn’t tell the full story of the first multi-format series between Australia and India.
On paper, India won just one match – the third ODI that snapped Meg Lanning and Co’s storied winning streak – and drew the one-off pink-ball Test. But for the most part of all matches, except perhaps the first ODI and final T20I, the contest was competitive. Indeed, without a contentious no-ball call and weather intervening to play spoilsport more than once, the final outcome could have been different.
India’s raw talent and passion stood out over the series even when the basics were not right and as a unit, things were haphazard in crunch situations. But at the decisive moments, it was Australians that stood up, pulled in the same direction and formed the more cohesive unit. This was perhaps the biggest differential between the two sides. India created and had their chances, Australians – even when not at their best – grabbed them.
So, why were a not-at-full strength Australia able to win the big moments consistently? Because most of them, be a debutant or a veteran, have been there before. In the Women’s Big Bash League. On Australia-A Tours. In international cricket. Simply...
