New era dawns as Australia seeks revenge against India for World Cup defeat
Sydney Morning Herald
by Frances HoweFebruary 13, 2026
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The Australian women’s cricket team is set to face India in a multi-format series this month, marking their first tournament since being defeated by India in the World Cup semi-finals. Sophie Molineux has taken over as captain, replacing Alyssa Healy who retired, and the team is eager to rebound from the loss that ended their World Cup hopes. The series, which includes T20 matches, one-day internationals, and a Test match, presents an opportunity for redemption against India, who are riding on recent World Cup success.
The Australians have been reflecting on the emotional defeat in October, with many players still feeling the sting of the loss. Phoebe Litchfield, who scored her first World Cup century during the tournament, admitted to replaying the moment of dismissal and the subsequent heartbreak of not securing a win. The team’s desire for revenge is palpable, as they aim to prove themselves against India, who are expected to bring confidence from their World Cup victory.
Molineux acknowledged the challenges ahead, particularly facing an Indian squad that has gained momentum and star power since the tournament. She emphasized the importance of addressing these challenges head-on, while also highlighting the chance to showcase new talent like 19-year-old bowler Lucy Hamilton and returning players such as Nicola Carey. The series will not only test their resilience but also provide a platform for fresh faces to shine.
For Litchfield, this series is about more than just cricket—it’s an opportunity for personal redemption. Having experienced the highs of scoring a century in a World Cup match, only to see the team fall short, she is determined to contribute meaningfully and help Australia secure a much-needed victory. The players’ collective focus on bouncing back reflects their determination to overcome past heartbreak.
This series holds significant importance not just for cricket fans in Australia and India but globally as
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Originally published on Sydney Morning Herald on 2/13/2026