Australia Women vs India Women: The Battle of the Titans

The much-anticipated clash between the world's top two sides in women's cricket, Australia and India, kicked off on Saturday in a scintillating match at the Sydney Cricket Ground.

Australia took the wicket of Indian opener Shafali Verma in the very first over, setting the tone for a thrilling encounter. India's Smriti Mandhana and Harmanpreet Kaur attempted to steady the innings, but Australia's bowlers kept the pressure on, reducing India to 40-2 in the eighth over.

However, India fought back with a magnificent century from captain Harmanpreet Kaur, who took the game by the scruff of the neck and carried India to a respectable total of 225 all out. Kaur's knock will go down in history as one of the finest innings ever played in the Women's World Cup.

In reply, Australia's chase was far from smooth sailing. India's bowlers, led by Renuka Singh, bowled with great discipline, making it difficult for Australia to score. Australia lost wickets at regular intervals, including the key wickets of Alyssa Healy and Meg Lanning.

But just when India seemed on the cusp of a famous victory, Australia's Beth Mooney hit the winning runs with just two balls to spare. Mooney's unbeaten 126 was a masterclass in batting under pressure.

The victory was a major boost for Australia's hopes of retaining their World Cup title. They will now face England in the semi-finals, while India will face South Africa in the other semi-final.

The tournament has been a thrilling ride so far, and the semi-finals promise to be even more exciting.