Healy masterclass trumps India’s opening statement

The Aussie skipper hits 142, the highest score in this World Cup, to help holders chase India’s 330 with three wickets in hand

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Australia captain Alyssa Healy plays a shot during the World Cup match against India at ACA-VDCA Stadium in Visakhapatnam.

(AP)

Alyssa Healy had spoken of fine balances and increasing greys before the World Cup fixture against India. She spoke of learning to utilise a few smarter options while never curbing her natural aggression.

On Sunday night, with a gentle breeze from the Bay of Bengal blowing, she played a captain's knock that underlined that Australia, even when stretched, remain a tough side to beat. Starring with a stunning 142 off 107 balls (21x4, 3x6) - the highest score in this World Cup, her sixth ODI hundred, the first as captain and the third in World Cups~she put on a masterclass in absorbing pressure, pacing a chase of 331 runs, and stamping authority in a rivalry that they continue to dominate.

With the three-wicket win, the defending champions handed India their second loss in a row, leaving the hosts with plenty to think of. India are third on the table (4 points, 4 games), equal with fourth-placed South Africa, who have played three. Australia and England are the top two, and the top four qualify for the semis.