Alyssa Healy’s century drives Australia to record World Cup chase against India

Australia pulled off a record-breaking women’s ODI chase as Alyssa Healy’s commanding 142 runs powered the defending champions to a thrilling three-wicket victory over India in Visakhapatnam on Sunday. Chasing a challenging target of 331, Australia reached their goal with just six balls to spare, with Ellyse Perry finishing unbeaten on 47 alongside Kim Garth to guide the team home.


The successful chase surpassed the previous record of 302, set by Sri Lanka against South Africa in April 2024, marking one of the most memorable ODI chases in women’s cricket history. The win, Australia’s third in four matches, propelled them to the top of the points table, while hosts India, suffering their second consecutive defeat after a loss to South Africa, remained in third place.



Healy set the tone for the chase with a brisk start alongside Phoebe Litchfield, followed by a crucial partnership with Ashleigh Gardner, who scored 45 runs. Healy’s innings was instrumental, but she fell with Australia needing 66 runs from 68 balls. Despite having retired hurt earlier due to cramps, Perry returned to anchor the innings, steering Australia to victory alongside Garth.

"Really proud of the group. A little bit tight at the back end, but we’ve been emphasizing the depth of our line-up, and being able to chase 330 proved that," Healy said. "Full credit to our bowlers for pulling it back; we could have been chasing 360-plus. I was trying to lock in for a big day, and to contribute heavily was great. Would have liked to stay a bit longer, but the girls got the job done."


Earlier, India looked poised for a huge total, with Smriti Mandhana (80) and Pratika Rawal (75) putting together a 155-run opening stand. However, a dramatic collapse saw India lose nine wickets for 138 runs, finishing at 330.

Annabel Sutherland’s five-wicket haul triggered the slide, while left-arm spinner N Shree Charani impressed with 3-41. Ultimately, Healy’s blistering hundred - her first as captain and third in a World Cup - proved decisive, as Australia extended their dominance in the tournament and reinforced their credentials as title contenders.