Australia Women vs India Women, 3rd ODI Match Summary

Match intro - As the multi-format tour reaches its penultimate stage, the focus shifts back to the Bellerive Oval in Hobart for the third and final One Day International between Australia Women and India Women. With the ICC Women’s Championship points at stake and a historic Test match in Perth looming, this clash between the world’s two most formidable sides carries weight far beyond a simple bilateral result. The series has been a tactical chess match. Australia, the relentless juggernaut at home, has relied on their trademark depth and clinical finishing. India, however, arrived with momentum from a T20I series win (2-1) and the psychological edge of their historic 2025 World Cup semi-final victory over the Aussies but haven't been able to translate the same form in this WODI series this far. Australia's resilience - The hosts have had to navigate significant injury concerns. With Ellyse Perry and Kim Garth sidelined due to quad injuries, and captain Sophie Molineux recently ruled out with a lower back issue, the invincible Aussie squad looks more human than usual. However, the emergence of Phoebe Litchfield and Georgia Voll, along with the steady hand of Beth Mooney ensure the Southern Stars remain favorites on home soil. India's quest for consistency - For Harmanpreet Kaur’s side, the tour has been a rollercoaster. While the T20I victory was a statement of intent, the transition to the 50-over format has tested their middle-order stability. Smriti Mandhana remains the linchpin and her record against Australia is sensational. If the opening pair of Mandhana and Pratika Rawal can survive the Powerplay, India has the firepower to post or chase a big total. Pitch and conditions - The Bellerive Oval is known for its true bounce and short square boundaries, making it a batter's paradise once the initial moisture evaporates. However, being a day-night fixture, the evening sea breeze often aids the seamers under lights. Form (Last 5 completed ODIs, most recent first) - AUS - WWLWW | IND - LLWWW. The Stakes - This match is a vital dress rehearsal for the Day-Night Test in Perth starting next week. For India, a win here would see them bounce back after two successive losses and level the multi-format series. For Australia, it’s about taking an unassailable 8-4 lead and re-establishing the hierarchy before the red-ball challenge. Who are you backing for the win?