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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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.

By the time she flicked Sneh Rana for a single to reach her century, Healy had anchored Australia towards the highest successful chase in Women’s ODI World Cup history. It also reminded everyone that this era of Australian dominance still beats to her rhythm.