KEY POINTS
- Ashleigh Gardner’s unbeaten 115 helped Australia post a commanding total of 326 runs against New Zealand.
- Sophie Molineux’s 3 wickets and disciplined bowling led Australia to an 89-run victory by restricting New Zealand to 237.
INDORE, India: Australia Women secured a massive 89-run victory over New Zealand Women in their ICC Women’s World Cup clash at Holkar Cricket Stadium, Indore, on Wednesday.
Batting first, Australia posted a formidable total of 326 runs in 49.3 overs, powered by a sensational unbeaten 115 from Ashleigh Gardner, who struck 16 boundaries and a six at a strike rate of 138.55.
Phoebe Litchfield led a strong start with 45 runs off 31 balls, while Ellyse Perry and Tahlia McGrath contributed valuable middle-order runs to push the score past 300.
The Australian bowling attack then dismantled the New Zealand innings, restricting them to 237 all out in 43.2 overs.
Captain Sophie Molineux was the pick of the bowlers, claiming 3 wickets for just 25 runs at an economy rate of 3.00. Annabel Sutherland and Alana King also impressed, taking 3 and 2 wickets respectively to choke the opposition.
New Zealand struggled early, losing both openers without scoring. Despite a valiant 111 from captain Sophie Devine, the Kiwi side could not recover from the early setbacks and lost wickets at regular intervals.
Australia’s clinical all-round performance not only showcased their depth but sent a strong message to their World Cup rivals as they maintain their status as tournament favourites.
Key Highlights
Ashleigh Gardner’s unbeaten 115 leads Australia to 326 runs.
Phoebe Litchfield’s brisk 45 gave Australia a strong start.
Sophie Molineux’s 3/25 helps restrict New Zealand to 237.
New Zealand captain Sophie Devine’s 111 in a losing cause.
