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The stage is set for the second ODI between Australia Women and India Women at the Allan Border Field, Brisbane, on December 8, 2024, at 5:15 AM IST. Australia leads the three-match series 1-0 after a dominant performance in the first ODI, where they defeated India by five wickets.
The Allan Border Field, known for its lively pitch and historic moments, will once again host the two cricketing powerhouses. Here’s a detailed pitch report and what to expect from this crucial encounter:
Allan Border Field ODI Stats
| Criteria | Numbers |
|---|---|
| Matches Played | 21 |
| Matches Won Batting First | 9 |
| Matches Won Batting Second | 12 |
| Average First Innings Score | 210 |
| Average Second Innings Score | 169 |
The statistics reveal that chasing teams have a slight edge at this venue, with 12 wins compared to 9 for teams batting first. The average first-innings score of 210 suggests a decent surface for batters, but the second-innings average of 169 highlights the challenges of chasing under pressure.
Pitch Report: Balanced With Early Help for Bowlers
The Allan Border Field pitch is known for its consistent bounce and carry, providing a fair contest between bat and ball:
- Batters’ Perspective:
Early in the innings, the surface offers good bounce, enabling batters to play their strokes freely. However, the new ball brings movement, testing technique and patience. - Bowlers’ Perspective:
In the first ODI, seamers found swing and seam movement, particularly with the new ball, causing trouble for top-order batters. As the ball ages, spinners come into play, leveraging the grip and turn the surface offers. - Key Strategy:
Teams winning the toss may prefer to bowl first, utilizing the fresh conditions to exploit early movement and restrict the opposition. Setting a target can be tricky, given the decreasing scoring rate in the second innings.
Players to Watch Out For
- Australia Women:
- Megan Schutt: Took a career-best 5/19 in the last match and will again be pivotal with the new ball.
- Georgia Voll: The debutant impressed with a composed unbeaten 46* in the first game.
- India Women:
- Renuka Singh: Her figures of 3/45 showcased her ability to make breakthroughs despite limited support.
- Smriti Mandhana: Expected to bounce back after a rare failure, anchoring India’s innings.
Expectations for the 2nd ODI
India will look to bounce back and level the series, while Australia will aim to seal the series at home. With conditions likely favoring both seamers and spinners at different stages, adapting to the pitch will be key.
Will India overcome their first-ODI woes, or will Australia extend their dominance? All eyes are on Brisbane for what promises to be an exciting contest.
