But nicole faltum

Allan Border Field: An excellent 76 from Priya Punia went in vain as Australia ‘A’ registered a five-run win over India ‘A’ in the T20 opener of the multi-format tour at the Allan Border Field on Wednesday.

Electing to bat first, opener Tahlia Wilson hit a 33-ball fifty – laced with seven boundaries, while sharing a first-wicket stand of 74 with Katie Mack (39). After that, Australia ‘A’ lost five wickets for 42 runs, including three taken by left-arm spinner Saika Ishaque, who had Tahlia, followed by Katie and captain Tahlia McGrath falling on consecutive deliveries.

Pacer Sayali Satghare taking out Charli Knott and Tess Flintoff within three deliveries in the 15th over increased the likelihood of Australia ‘A’ being skittled out for a low total. But Nicole Faltum (25 not out off 16 balls) and Maddy Darke (23 not out off 16 balls) smashed 31 runs off the last two overs, including hitting four boundaries off Meghna Singh in the 20th over and take Australia ‘A’ to 163/5.