In a thrilling display of dominance, Australia A showcased their prowess as they defeated India A by seven wickets in the third and final T20 match, completing a resounding 3-0 series whitewash. The star of the show was none other than Tahlia McGrath, whose explosive 22-ball 51* ensured a quick finish to India A’s modest total of 120.
The Australian bowlers set the tone early on, with Grace Parsons, Maitlan Brown, and Nicola Hancock each picking up two wickets to keep India A on the back foot. Tayla Vlaeminck, who returned to the side after being benched in the second T20, made an immediate impact with remarkable figures of 1 for 6 in her four overs. Her early strike dismissed Shubha Satheesh for a duck, setting the tone for a dominant bowling performance.
India A’s top and middle order struggled to get going, with only Kiran Navgire and captain Minnu Mani putting up a fight with a crucial 57-run partnership. Navgire’s aggressive 38 off 20 provided some much-needed momentum to the innings, while Mani chipped in with 22 off 23 before falling to Brown.
Chasing a modest target, Australia A got off to a flying start with opener Wilson smashing boundaries early on. McGrath, coming off an unbeaten 47 in the last game, continued her fine form with a flurry of boundaries that kept the scoreboard ticking. Her aggressive knock, which included eight fours and two sixes, ensured that the hosts never wavered in their chase.
McGrath’s onslaught culminated in a spectacular half-century, as she guided Australia A to victory with ease. Despite a couple of hiccups in the form of wickets falling, McGrath’s brilliance shone through as she finished the job in style with three consecutive boundaries off Shabnam Shakil in the 14th over.
It was a comprehensive victory for Australia A, with McGrath’s heroics rightfully earning her the player of the match accolade. The series whitewash was a testament to Australia A’s dominance and sets them up nicely for future challenges on the international stage.
