New Delhi: Smriti Mandhana lit up the Kotla with a breathtaking 125 off just 63 balls – the second-fastest century in women’s ODIs – but her heroics could not prevent India from falling short in a mammoth chase, as Australia sealed a 43-run win in the series decider on Saturday.

Chasing a world-record 413, India’s hopes soared while Mandhana was at the crease, peppering the boundary with 17 fours and 5 sixes. But once she departed, the innings stumbled. Despite Deepti Sharma’s fighting 72 off 58 balls and an 8th-wicket stand of 65 with Sneh Rana, India were bowled out for 369 in 47 overs.

Earlier, Australia posted 412 – their joint highest-ever ODI total – with Beth Mooney leading the charge. Partnerships up top gave them momentum, and though the innings lost steam towards the end, the scoreboard pressure proved decisive.

Mooney, named Player of the Match, admitted they had even aimed for 450: “We were just out there batting, building a partnership, and at one stage looked at 430–450. Still, 412 was a great total to defend.”

Australia skipper Alyssa Healy hailed her side’s resilience on a flat deck: “That’s one of the flattest wickets I’ve ever played on. We knew it could be 400 vs 400. Credit to the girls for hanging in there – we’re in a great place heading into the World Cup.”

Mandhana, crowned Player of the Series, reflected on her approach: “When you’re chasing 413, you’ve no choice but to play your shots. The wicket was good, and I just focussed on my routines and keeping it simple.”

India captain Harmanpreet Kaur remained upbeat despite the defeat: “Not happy with the result, but there are positives. Deepti and Sneh showed great depth in batting. Fielding cost us, but we’ve learnt a lot before the World Cup. We gave Australia a tough fight.”

The contest, which produced nearly 800 runs, underlined both sides’ firepower and set the tone for what promises to be a fiercely competitive World Cup.