Australia's Strong Start in Pink-Ball Test Against India

On the opening day of the pink-ball Test at WACA Ground, Australia showcased a strong performance, dismissing India for 198 runs. Ellyse Perry and Annabel Sutherland led the hosts' response with a solid partnership, ending the day at 96/3. India's bowlers made early breakthroughs, but Perry's confident batting steadied the innings. With Sutherland's impressive bowling figures, Australia looks poised for a strong position in the match. Read on for detailed highlights and scores.

By Narendra Chaudhary Mar 6, 2026, 21:25 IST

Perry and Sutherland Propel Australia's Response

Following a dominant bowling performance that saw Australia dismiss India for just 198 runs on the first day of the pink-ball Test at WACA Ground in Perth, the home team ended the day at 96/3 after 27 overs, trailing by 102 runs.

Ellyse Perry and Annabel Sutherland played a crucial role in stabilizing the innings, forming an unbeaten partnership of 38 runs. Perry concluded the day with 43 runs off 62 balls, including seven boundaries, while Sutherland contributed 20 runs from 29 balls, hitting three fours.

India's Early Breakthroughs

India made significant early inroads under the lights, with Sayali Satghare and Kranti Gaud claiming vital wickets. Debutant pacer Satghare dismissed Georgia Voll for just two runs with a well-placed inswinger, and Gaud followed up by removing Phoebe Litchfield for nine, with Jemimah Rodrigues taking a sharp catch at backward point.

Australia's captain Alyssa Healy, in her second-to-last international match, received a warm welcome from the crowd but could only manage 13 runs before edging a delivery from Satghare to Rodrigues. With Australia at 58/3, India seemed to have the upper hand, but Perry responded with confident strokes, supported by Sutherland's fluent batting.

Sutherland Shines as India Falls to 198

Earlier in the match, Healy won a crucial toss and opted to bowl first on a pitch that favored bowlers. Australia's bowlers maintained consistent pressure, preventing India from settling into their innings. Sutherland excelled with figures of 4/46, while Lucy Hamilton contributed with 3/31, leading to India's total of 198 runs in 62.4 overs, with Jemimah Rodrigues being the top scorer at 52 runs.

Brief score: India 198 (Jemimah Rodrigues 52, Shafali Verma 35; Annabel Sutherland 4/46). Australia 96/3 in 27 overs (Ellyse Perry 43*, Annabel Sutherland 20*; Sayali Satghare 2/24).