[WATCH] Mooney’s storming 138 ends in shock run-out as Australia set record target

Beth Mooney’s fierce innings concluded in improbable fashion during the third Women’s ODI between India and Australia at Arun Jaitley Stadium in Delhi, adding a bracing twist to an otherwise one-sided affair. Starting with Australia already 150/2, Mooney, affectionately known as Moons by her teammates, finished with an astonishing 138 off 75 balls (23 fours, 1 six), propelling Australia to a scoreboard of 412/3, matching their joint-highest record in Women’s ODIs.

In knocking off her century in just 57 balls, she matched Karen Rolton’s 57-ball century from 2001 against South Africa, which now sits as joint second-fastest in Women’s ODI history, to accompany the co-fastest century, joint-held by Lanning and Gardner.

Yet, Mooney was ultimately run out after a whirlwind innings in the 45th over. When Grace Harris hit a full and wide delivery back to the bowler, the ball was inadvertently thrown at the stumps before Mooney had completed the risky second run, resulting in her dismissal. This dismissal epitomised her aggressive intent and slight miscommunication.

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Mooney’s run-out offers a brief breath as India prepare to chase down the mammoth score set by the Ausralia Women

Even after taking a wicket, Australia was still well in control. The openers have been able to set a platform with quick-fire starts of 30 and 81 before Mooney arrived to the crease, but Ellyse Perry also helped herself to a quickfire 68. Each of these players partnerships pushed Australia toward a monster total.

The fielding lapses India experienced at the beginning of the innings helped fuel the scoring, but players like Sneh Rana tried to keep it under control. Rana bowled well, finishing with figures of 1/68 from 10 overs. Deepti Sharma then bowled brilliantly in her last few overs, including a one-handed catch to dismiss Grace Harris which helped slow the scoring down as well.

Australia has now posted a total of 412, which puts India in a near-obligate match situation. Mooney's run out provided a brief sigh of relief, but the Indian women's team is going to need a full team batting effort to pursue what is now the highest score ever conceded in a Women's ODI.