Australia Women vs India Women: Sophie Molineux courageously returns to field after being hit by nasty throw

Australian women cricketer Sophie Molineux showcased tremendous courage to retake the field after being smashed by a nasty bouncy ball. This unfortunate incident took place during the third and last women’s ODI between Australia and India at the Harrup Park in Mackay. Molineux delivered a sensational spell to make India’s chase of 265 difficult. However, more than anything, her guts, and dedication towards the game bagged praises.

Speaking of the incident, it was the last ball of 39th over and the match was evenly poised. Deepti Sharma top-edged a short delivery from Annabel Sutherland and the ball raised towards the fine leg region. Stella Campbell, the fielder in that region, was swift to collect the ball and fire it back to the striker’s end. With Molineux being near the stumps, she decided the collect the ball.

Unfortunately, however, the ball bounced just in front of her and smashed her face. The left-arm spinner was subsequently taken off the field for treatment. With the hit being nasty, Molineux wasn’t expected to take any part in the game. However, the youngster quickly came back with a bandage wrapped around her mouth.

Not only that, the spinner even bowled a couple of overs, giving a hard time to Indian batters. Unfortunately for the home team, Molineux ended up on the losing the side. However, his courage and passion was lauded by one and all. As far as her spell is concerned, the spinner gave away 41 runs in 9.3 overs alongside taking an important wicket of dashing opener Shafali Verma.3

Coming to the match, India walked away with a two-wicket win in what can be called a thrilling encounter. Batting first in Mackay, the Women in Yellow posted a competitive total of 264/9 all thanks to vital contributions from Ashleigh Gardner, Beth Mooney, and Tahlia McGrath. For India, Jhulan Goswami and Pooja Vastrakar took three wickets apiece.

India’s chase started off smoothly with Smriti Mandhana, Shafali Verma and Yastika Bhatia firing at the top. However, a tragic batting collapse added some twist in the tale. Nevertheless, the visitors eventually crossed the line in the last over, winning the game by two wickets. With this game being a dead rubber, India lost the series 2-1.