Young India opener Pratika Rawal did not shy away from admitting her team’s shortcomings after India suffered a crushing 185-run defeat to Australia in the third and final ODI in Hobart on Sunday. The loss sealed a 3-0 series sweep in favor of the hosts.
Australia delivered a commanding batting performance, powered by a sensational 158 from captain Alyssa Healy in what marked her final ODI appearance, alongside an unbeaten 106 from Beth Mooney. Their efforts propelled Australia to a formidable 409 for seven. In reply, India struggled to maintain momentum and were bowled out for 224 in 45.1 overs.
Speaking after the match, Rawal acknowledged that the visitors failed to execute their plans effectively across all departments.
“Nothing really went according to plan for us,” she said. “The bowlers tried their best, but the Australian batters played some outstanding cricket. We attempted to pull things back, but overall we were not consistent enough. Even with the bat, we got starts but couldn’t build them into substantial scores.”
India’s innings lacked major contributions from the top order. Batting at No. 9, Sneh Rana emerged as the team’s highest scorer with a resilient 44 off 74 deliveries. Jemimah Rodrigues added a brisk 42 from 29 balls, but neither innings was enough to mount a serious challenge.
Rawal praised Rana’s fighting knock, noting that the absence of big partnerships hurt the side.
“Rana played really well towards the end. But when you don’t put enough runs on the board collectively, it reflects on the overall performance. She struck the ball cleanly, and some of her shots were excellent despite the flat conditions.”
The 25-year-old emphasized that the heavy defeat would serve as an important learning experience for the team. With a one-off pink-ball Test in Perth starting March 6, India now has an opportunity to reset and respond.
“These moments teach you a lot,” Rawal said. “We believe in ourselves as a group and we are determined to bounce back stronger. The focus now shifts to the Test match.”
The upcoming fixture could mark Rawal’s debut in the longest format, a prospect she described as exciting.
“If I get the chance, it will be my first Test match, and that’s very special. Test cricket is one of the most rewarding formats of the game. I’m really looking forward to it,” she said.
Having arrived in Australia for the first time, Rawal acknowledged the importance of quickly adapting to conditions in Perth.
“The initial practice sessions will be crucial. We’ll need to assess the pitch and understand the conditions well. Preparation is going to be key.”
After a disappointing ODI series, India now turns its attention to the red-ball challenge, hoping to restore pride and showcase resilience in the longer format.
