Shourjyani Chatterjee
It was absolute destruction by Australia in their encounter with South Africa in match 26 of the ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup 2025 at Indore’s Holkar Stadium. The Aussies overpowered the Proteas by bowling them out for a mere 97 runs, and then chased down the target in 16.5 overs with seven wickets in hand.
Australia won the toss and decided to field first. South Africa started brightly with Laura Wolvaardt unleashing some snappy drives on her way to 31 off 29 balls. Sinalo Jafta battled for 29, while Nadine de Klerk contributed 14. But it was the magic of Alana King which ensured a radical collapse. The leggie bowled with elegance and effortless control. Her variations and subtle dips were a pure masterclass, especially in the context of the shorter dimensions of the ground. King ended the spell with 7 wickets for a mere 18 runs. Undoubtedly, it was the best performance of the tournament so far.
The target set by the South African team was meagre, albeit Australia suffered a brief early wobble, losing two quick wickets. However, Beth Mooney ensured stability, constructing a fluent 42 not out, while young Georgia Voll played with great maturity for 38. They led Australia to an easy victory, and maintained their unbeaten streak in the tournament.
This win cemented Australia’s dominance at the head of the table,,as well as making sure of a nail-biting semi-final between Australia and India on October 30 at the DY Patil Stadium in Navi Mumbai.
South Africa will now play England in the first semi-final on October 29. The Aussie flair for sure created some uneasiness for the Indian viewers. King’s spin on Indian soil was a delightful reminder of how beauty and precision can still stand its ground in fast-paced contemporary cricket. All eyes are now on the upcoming India-Australian clash, and the toughest possible road for the hosts to the final.
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