Katie Mack's Century Powers Australia A to Victory Over India A

Australia A secured a four-wicket victory over India A in the first one-day match in Mackay, thanks to a brilliant 129-run knock by Katie Mack. The final scoreline of 250 for 6, in response to India A's 249 for 9, doesn’t fully capture the dominance Australia A displayed during the chase.

Mack's century was the cornerstone of Australia A's successful pursuit, as she shared a crucial 122-run partnership for the third wicket with captain Tahlia McGrath, who continued her excellent form with a brisk 56. Mack reached her century off 106 balls, ensuring that the home team was never under significant pressure throughout the innings.

The chase began steadily, with Mack adding 50 runs for the first wicket alongside Maddy Darke, followed by a 65-run stand for the second wicket with Charli Knott, who was run out by a direct hit. Mack was eventually bowled by Meghna Singh with just five runs remaining to seal the win.

Reflecting on the match, Mack mentioned that early swing in the pitch made finding boundaries challenging, especially on a slower wicket. She highlighted her focus on making the most of her strong start, particularly after getting a few starts in the T20 series.

McGrath, who was dropped on 10 by Sayali Satghare, continued to anchor the innings until she was dismissed while sweeping, though by that point, Australia A’s victory was almost certain, despite a late fall of wickets that included two dismissals with the scores level.

Earlier in the day, India A, after being put into bat, struggled early on as Nicola Hancock struck with the new ball, dismissing Shweta Sehrawat in the first over and later removing Priya Punia. Raghvi Bist led India A's recovery with partnerships of 55, 52, and 68, all of which helped rebuild their innings from 56 for 3. Leg-spinner Grace Parsons impressed by taking the wicket of Tejal Hasabnis for 53 with a sharp leg-break.

Maitlan Brown wrapped up the innings effectively, ending Bist's hopes of reaching a century and taking three wickets in the final over.

Australia A now leads the series with two more one-day games scheduled in Mackay on Friday and Sunday, followed by a four-day match on the Gold Coast next week. Australia A previously won the T20 series 3-0.