SYDNEY: Australia clinched a commanding victory in Perth by an innings and 284 runs despite facing resistance from Delmi Tucker and Chloe Tryon in South Africa’s second innings. This triumph marked Australia’s largest victory by an innings, surpassing their previous best of an innings and 140 runs against England in 2001. Additionally, it stood as the second-biggest win by runs margin in terms of an innings.
Opting to field under scorching conditions at the WACA, Perth, Alyssa Healy won the toss. Rising fast bowler Darcie Brown dismantled the Proteas’ batting lineup, limiting them to a mere 76 all out, securing her maiden five-wicket haul and marking South Africa Women’s lowest-ever Test total.
Despite initial setbacks against Masabata Klaas, Australia seized control of their batting innings with impressive half-centuries from Beth Mooney (78) and Alyssa Healy (99). However, it was Annabel Sutherland’s outstanding maiden double century that further strengthened the hosts’ dominance.
Sutherland became the ninth double centurion in women’s Tests and the fifth Australian player to achieve this milestone. Remarkably, she reached her double century off just 248 balls, setting a new record for the fastest double century in women’s Tests, surpassing Karen Rolton’s previous mark of 306 balls. Additionally, she became the youngest Australian woman to achieve this feat.
Sutherland’s magnificent innings culminated in a score of 210, featuring 27 fours and two sixes.
Australia eventually declared on 575/9 – the highest total in women’s Tests, eclipsing their own record set in 1998.
