The air in Navi Mumbai was thick with anticipation as India and Australia faced off in a high-stakes Women’s World Cup semifinal. However, before the first ball was bowled, a profound moment of unity overshadowed the fierce rivalry. Both teams stepped onto the field adorned with black armbands, a solemn tribute to Ben Austin, a 17-year-old boy who tragically passed away after being struck by a cricket ball during a practice session in Melbourne.
This heartbreaking incident had sent ripples of grief throughout the cricketing community, prompting this powerful gesture of solidarity. The black armbands served as a poignant reminder that while competition is vital, the spirit of sportsmanship, empathy, and shared humanity extends far beyond the boundaries of the playing field.
Australia’s captain, Alyssa Healy, returning from injury to lead her team, won the toss and elected to bat first. “These are great conditions, and it’s a good opportunity for us to post a strong total,” Healy remarked, highlighting her gratitude for the 10-day rehabilitation break. She emphasized the semi-final’s nature: “It’s all about which team performs better on the day.” Sophie Molineux was brought into the squad, replacing Wareham.
Indian skipper Harmanpreet Kaur, equally resolute, shared her team’s strategy: “We were hoping to bat first as well. Securing early breakthroughs will be crucial for us. We’re very familiar with this pitch, having held many training camps here and played our last two matches on it.” Kaur stressed the team’s “fearless mindset” when facing Australia. Due to an injury to Pratika, Shafali Verma was included in the playing XI, with Richa and Kranti returning for Uma and Harleen.
As the match unfolded, the black armbands remained a powerful symbol. They underscored that despite the intense contest between two of cricket’s titans, the underlying human connection and shared love for the game run deeper than any scoreline. Both squads, united in their sorrow, aimed to honor Ben Austin’s memory with a truly passionate and memorable performance.
Playing XI:
India Women: Shafali Verma, Smriti Mandhana, Amanjot Kaur, Harmanpreet Kaur (c), Jemimah Rodrigues, Deepti Sharma, Richa Ghosh (w), Radha Yadav, Kranti Gaud, Shree Charani, Renuka Singh Thakur.
Australia Women: Phoebe Litchfield, Alyssa Healy (w/c), Ellyse Perry, Beth Mooney, Annabel Sutherland, Ashleigh Gardner, Tahlia McGrath, Sophie Molineux, Alana King, Kim Garth, Megan Schut.