Australia thrash South Africa by 7 wickets, set up semis against India in womens World Cup
Australia crush South Africa with Alana King's record 7-wicket haul, setting up a blockbuster World Cup semifinal against India on Oct 30.
New Delhi: Australia maintained their unbeaten streak in the ICC Women's Cricket World Cup 2025 with a commanding seven-wicket win over South Africa at the Holkar Stadium in Indore. After being restricted to a mere 97 runs total, Proteas had no answer to Alana King's brilliant leg-spin which sent shockwaves through the batting lineup and secured Aussies' place at the top of the points table.
South Africa’s innings began on a cautious note but they quickly crumbled under the weight of Australia’s relentless bowling attack. Megan Schutt opened the account with the prized wicket of Laura Wolvaardt, followed by Kim Garth removing Tazmin Brits during the powerplay. Despite a brief period of resistance, the middle and lower order collapsed as King’s magic with the ball dismantled the Proteas.
King's record-breaking performance
Alana King was the star of the show, claiming a seven-wicket haul for just 18 runs. With this spectacular performance, she recorded the best-ever bowling figures by an individual in ICC Women's World Cup history. King's leg-spin tore through the Proteas middle order, sending Sune Luus, Marizanne Kapp and finally Nadine de Klerk back to the pavilion. This seven-for not only set a new benchmark but also ensured Australia's dominance in a top-of-the-table clash.
Ash Gardner also contributed with her spin, cleaning up Ayabonga Khaka while the combined efforts of the bowlers ensured Proteas could not cross the 100 mark. Aussie's fielding was sharp throughout and every breakthrough added pressure on the Proteas, highlighting the team’s all-round dominance.
In response, ustralia made light work of the chase. Beth Mooney and Georgia Voll steadied the innings after early jitters, guiding the defending champions to victory with seven wickets in hand.
Looking ahead
The win cemented Australia's top position and confirmed their clash against India in the second semifinal in Navi Mumbai on October 30. The upcoming semi-final promises an intriguing contest as India buoyed by their own league stage performance will face a high-on-confidence Australian side.
However, England and South Africa will contest the first semi-final in Guwahati on October 29.