Australia stamped their authority on the ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup 2025 with a dominant seven-wicket victory over South Africa in Indore, securing the No.1 spot heading into the semifinals.
Chasing a modest 98, the defending champions overcame early trouble thanks to a composed batting display from Beth Mooney (42) and Georgia Voll (38*), with Annabel Sutherland assisting in a calm finish as they reached the target comfortably.
The run chase began shakily when Marizanne Kapp removed Phoebe Litchfield and Nadine de Klerk pulled off a sensational catch to dismiss Ellyse Perry. South Africa showed fight with the ball, but Australia’s depth and experience saw them home.
The real storyline of the match, however, unfolded earlier with Australia’s world-class bowling performance — led by Alana King’s spell of a lifetime. The leg-spinner tore through the Proteas lineup, claiming a remarkable 7-for, the best figures ever recorded at a Women’s Cricket World Cup.
King dismantled the middle order with precision, sending Sune Luus, Kapp, Chloe Tryon, Annerie Dercksen, Sinalo Jafta, Masabata Klaas and finally de Klerk back to the pavilion. Her devastating spell left South Africa reeling and ensured they never recovered.
Megan Schutt set the tone with the key wicket of captain Laura Wolvaardt early, while Kim Garth also struck in the powerplay to remove Tazmin Brits. Ash Gardner added further pressure with her dismissal of Ayabonga Khaka, before King completed the demolition job.
Australia remain unbeaten in the tournament, showcasing multiple match-winners across the squad — including a record run chase against India earlier in the group stage.
South Africa, despite a heavy opening defeat to England, showed strong resilience with five straight victories leading into this clash. They still progress to the knockout round with belief intact.
With the table now locked in, Australia will face India in the second semi-final in Navi Mumbai on 30 October, while South Africa take on England in Guwahati on 29 October.
The business end of the World Cup has arrived — and Australia look ominously ready to defend their crown.