Kolkata: India is currently seeking to address their top-order deficiencies, yet the first ODI against Australia did not yield the desired insights. A reckless shot from Smriti Mandhana, followed by an ill-timed attempt from Priya Punia and a remarkable catch by Annabel Sutherland to dismiss Harleen Deol, resulted in India losing their top three batsmen for a mere 42 runs. This situation once again called upon Harmanpreet Kaur and Jemimah Rodrigues to rescue the innings, but they were unable to do so.

Renuka Thakur initiated a brief collapse with a three-wicket haul; however, this merely postponed the inevitable outcome, as Australia triumphed over India by five wickets in a match that concluded in less than half the expected duration in Brisbane on Thursday. Choosing to bat at a venue known for favourable chasing conditions, India was bowled out for 100 runs in 34.2 overs, with pacer Megan Schutt being the standout performer, claiming 5 wickets for 19 runs. Australia successfully chased down the target with 202 balls remaining, taking a 1-0 lead in the three-match series.

“We bowled well despite the disappointing total we posted. We managed to take five wickets,” Kaur remarked during the post-match presentation. “Several players got starts, but we failed to carry the batting through to the end, and we need to focus on building partnerships. We will continue to work hard and reflect on this performance. We now have a better understanding of the pitch and hope to have clearer strategies for the next ODI.”

With Shafali Verma omitted and Yastika Bhatia sidelined due to injury, India opted to take a risk by having Punia open alongside Mandhana. Punia appeared uncomfortable, struggling to rotate the strike, which intensified the pressure early in India’s innings. Mandhana provided some respite with a couple of elegant boundaries, but Schutt's round-the-wicket approach coaxed a cut shot that resulted in a faint edge. Punia managed to stay at the crease for a while before Schutt dismissed her, inducing a catch at backward square leg.

Deol's difficulties in finding gaps were apparent, but Kaur took the initiative in their partnership. India seemed to be recovering until Sutherland executed a stunning catch to dismiss Deol during Ashleigh Gardner’s first over.

What is Vinod Kambli's only source of income?

Kambli has long been associated with controversies. After enduring years of alcohol addiction and embracing a lavish lifestyle, the former Indian cricketer appeared to be on a positive trajectory until a few years back. He had secured a position at Tendulkar's cricket academy in Mumbai, and everything seemed to be progressing well until 2022 when Kambli disclosed for the first time that his financial situation was dire. His sole source of income was a monthly pension of ₹30,000 from the BCCI.

"I am a retired cricketer who relies entirely on the pension from the BCCI. Currently, my only source of income comes from the Board, for which I am truly thankful. It supports my family," Kambli stated in an interview with Mid-Day.

"I am seeking opportunities to work with young players. I understand that Mumbai has retained Amol [Muzumdar] as their head coach, but I am available wherever I am needed. We played together and formed a strong team. I hope the current Mumbai team can emulate that spirit of teamwork. I reached out to the MCA [Mumbai Cricket Association] for assistance. I joined the CIC [Cricket Improvement Committee], but it was an honorary position. I approached the MCA multiple times for support, as I have a family to care for. I have expressed my willingness to help, whether at Wankhede Stadium or BKC. Mumbai cricket has given me so much; I owe my life to this sport."

Two years later, the situation for the former cricketer, once a prominent figure in Indian cricket, has not improved significantly. In August of this year, a video surfaced showing Kambli struggling to dismount from his bike, raising concerns about his well-being. His recent appearance further confirmed that he is facing challenges.

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