India women suffered a heartbreak on Friday as they lost the second ODI against hosts Australia in a dramatic fashion in Mackay.

Chasing a 275-run target, Australia required three runs off the final ball, which was to be bowled by Jhulan Goswami, India’s most experienced bowler. The medium pacer bowled an over-the-waist full toss which was hit straight to the fielder by Nicola Carey, triggering celebrations in the Indian camp.

But the joy was short-lived as the delivery was declared a no-ball by the TV umpire. Australia then managed to steal two runs from the last ball to claim the match as well as the three-ODI series, having won the first game. The five-wicket win was Australia’s 26th ODI triumph on the trot and the third-highest chase of all-time in women’s cricket.

Beth Mooney’s unbeaten 125 (off 133) and Carey’s 39 not out were the highlights of the Australian innings.

Earlier, Smriti Mandhana hit a fluent 86 to guide India to a competitive 274/7. She hit 11 boundaries to register her 19th half-century. She shared two crucial partnerships — 76 runs with Richa Ghosh (44) and 74 runs with Shafali Verma (22). India were off to a flying start with Mandhana and Shafali (22) racing to 68/0 in the first 10 overs, their best in the 10 ODIs they have played this year.

India captain Mithali Raj kept her chin up despite the defeat. “For me, it was quite a nervous last ball because anything could have happened… we didn’t expect a no-ball but it’s part of the game and we were all on the edge of our seats. We will continue to put up the show we did today,” said Mithali.

“This was a great game of cricket from both the teams.

It was a great cricket display with almost 550 runs scored. We still want to win the next game.

“The batting department has done well, Smriti and Richa have done well,” she added.

Brief scores: India women 274/7 in 50 ovs (S. Mandhana 86, R. Ghosh 44; T. McGrath 3/45). Australia women 275/5 in 50 ovs (B. Mooney 125 n.o., T. McGrath 74). Australia won by 5 wickets