Rolton stars as Australian women win

Australian Women 195 for 6 (Rolton 82, A Sharma 3-37) beat Indian Women 181 for 9 (Raj 60*, J Sharma 58) by 14 runs
Scorecard

The prolific Karen Rolton: on form again © Getty Images Enlarge

A splendid 82 by Karen Rolton was the highlight of the day in Mysore as the Australian women's team squeezed out a 14-run win against the Indians in the first of seven one-day matches. Rolton helped Australia to 195 for 6, and the Indians were restricted to 181 despite half-centuries by Mithali Raj and Jaya Sharma.

India's decision to field after winning the toss seemed a good one when they took two wickets within the first 20 overs - including that of Belinda Clark, the Australian captain - but Rolton found an able ally in Lisa Sthalekar. Together they added 97 for the third wicket before Sthalekar was out for 34. Rolton was dismissed soon after by Amita Sharma, who was India's most successful bowler with 3 for 37.

India's run-chase got off to a steady start, and at 118 for 2 in the 35th over, they were well placed. However, Rolton struck a crucial blow at that stage, getting rid of Jaya Sharma for 58. Mithali remained unbeaten on 60, striking nine fours in her innings, but the lower order failed to provide enough support. Three of the last five players made ducks, as the Indians fell 14 short.

The second match will be played at the same venue on December 13.