Hope Dashed: India Falls Short in Thrilling ODI Opener against Australia

A valiant effort from the Indian women's cricket team wasn't enough to overcome a spirited Australian charge in the first ODI of the three-match series. Despite posting their highest-ever ODI score against Australia of 282/8, led by Jemimah Rodrigues' fiery 82, the hosts were ultimately defeated by a comfortable six-wicket margin.

Australia's chase was anchored by a resolute 148-run partnership between Phoebe Litchfield (78) and Ellyse Perry (75), who weathered the early storm of Renuka Thakur's (2/37) pace. While India's bowlers chipped away with wickets at regular intervals, they couldn't contain the flow of runs, with Beth Mooney (42) and Tahlia McGrath (68*) guiding the Aussies home with 21 balls to spare.

The defeat marks India's sixth consecutive loss and extends their home winless streak to eight matches. While the team can take heart from their record-breaking batting performance, tightening their fielding and finding bowling consistency will be crucial in turning things around in the remaining matches.