In a match that will be remembered as one of the most exhilarating encounters of the Women’s World Cup, Ellyse Perry returned from an injury break to guide Australia to a sensational victory over India with a six on the final ball. Perry’s unbeaten 47 proved decisive in Australia’s record chase, highlighting her ability to perform under immense pressure and her enduring class in limited-overs cricket.
The match was a rollercoaster from the start. India batted first and posted a competitive total, with contributions from their top and middle order ensuring that Australia faced a challenging target. The Indian bowlers, led by medium pacers and spinners, kept the Australians in check for large periods, restricting the run flow and taking timely wickets. However, the Australian batting lineup, anchored by experienced campaigners, managed to keep the chase alive despite regular breakthroughs.
Perry’s innings was a masterclass in composure and timing. Coming back after an injury layoff, she initially played cautiously, assessing the pitch conditions and the bowlers’ strategies. As the innings progressed and the match edged closer to a nail-biting finish, Perry began to accelerate, finding gaps and rotating the strike efficiently. Her ability to balance aggression with patience allowed Australia to inch closer to India’s total with calculated risk-taking.
The climax of the match was nothing short of dramatic. Needing six runs from the final delivery, Perry faced immense pressure. Demonstrating her trademark poise, she launched the ball over the boundary for a six, sealing the victory and sending the Australian camp into celebration. The shot not only completed a remarkable chase but also underscored Perry’s reputation as one of the most clutch performers in women’s cricket history.
This win marked a record chase for Australia in Women’s World Cup history, reflecting both the team’s resilience and strategic approach to high-pressure situations. While India’s bowlers fought valiantly and created multiple opportunities to dismiss Perry and her partners, Australia’s experience and depth in batting ultimately made the difference. Perry’s performance, combined with crucial contributions from other middle-order batters, proved decisive.
The result also showcased the psychological strength and maturity of Australia’s squad. Perry, returning from injury, demonstrated leadership through action, inspiring confidence in younger players and maintaining composure when the stakes were at their highest. The victory reinforced Australia’s status as a dominant force in women’s cricket and highlighted their ability to execute under pressure in marquee tournaments.
For India, the match was a hard-fought contest that reflected both their potential and the narrow margins that define elite-level cricket. Despite falling short, their bowlers and fielders applied consistent pressure, and their batting earlier in the game had set the stage for an enthralling chase.
Ultimately, Perry’s last-ball six will be remembered as a defining moment of the tournament — a combination of skill, courage, and nerve. It encapsulated the drama and excitement of World Cup cricket, providing fans with a thrilling finish and reaffirming Perry’s status as one of the game’s all-time greats. Australia’s record chase stands as a testament to perseverance, experience, and the ability to seize critical moments when it matters most.
12BET Shortlisted for Sportsbook Operator of the Year at SBC Awards 2025