Navi Mumbai, Oct 31 (NationPress) The Australian all-rounder Ellyse Perry praised India captain Harmanpreet Kaur and Jemimah Rodrigues for their pivotal roles in leading India to the ICC Women’s ODI World Cup final. Their remarkable composure under pressure even drew admiration from the Australian dugout. India achieved the highest successful run chase in women's ODIs, securing their spot in Sunday’s championship match against South Africa, thus ending Australia’s title reign.

“In hindsight, it’s easy to speculate what could have been done differently,” Perry commented when questioned about Australia’s game strategy. “However, we all in our dressing room unanimously commend Harman and Jemi for their outstanding performance, especially after losing two early wickets in the power play. They capitalized on our mistakes. All credit goes to them rather than any missteps on our part.”

Perry further emphasized that her team wouldn’t dwell on missed opportunities that proved detrimental, such as Jemimah being dropped twice—first at 82 and then at 106—during India’s record chase. “Our goal is always to fight and embrace the challenge until the last moment. As long as we put in our best efforts, that’s what matters. It is all part of the sport,” she stated.

Despite her remarkable performance, scoring 77 and forming a significant 155-run partnership with Phoebe Litchfield (119), Perry downplayed her contribution in light of the team’s outcome. “My innings feels inconsequential,” she mentioned. “In high-stakes matches, both teams possess exceptional talent and experience, leading to standout performances. On our side, Phoebe was spectacular, and Ash (Ashleigh Gardner) finished the innings brilliantly. Yet, the partnership between Harman and Jemi was extraordinary, reflecting their prowess in home conditions.”

This semifinal defeat marked Australia’s first in an ICC tournament since 2017, also against India. Nevertheless, Perry refused to offer excuses. “You can’t leave a semifinal with excuses. Ultimately, performance on crucial days is what counts,” she asserted. “Yet, we take great pride in the style of cricket we’ve displayed throughout this tournament and the past year. We’re wholly committed to our approach.”