Australia Women delivered a commanding performance in the 26th match of the ICC Women’s World Cup 2025 at the Holkar Cricket Stadium, Indore, thrashing South Africa Women by seven wickets. Leg-spinner Alana King stole the spotlight with a sensational seven-wicket haul that completely derailed South Africa’s batting lineup, restricting them to just 97 runs.

In reply, Australia comfortably chased down the target in 16.5 overs to continue their dominant run in the tournament.

South Africa crumble against Alana King’s bowling brilliance

Opting to bowl first after winning the toss, Australia’s bowlers made full use of the surface that offered sharp turn and grip. South Africa’s innings never found rhythm, collapsing to 97 all out in just 24 overs. Skipper Laura Wolvaardt provided some resistance with a brisk 31 off 26 balls, striking seven boundaries, while wicketkeeper Caught Jafta contributed 29 runs off 17 balls to add some late spark.

However, King turned the match decisively in Australia’s favour with a dream spell. The leg-spinner delivered one of the finest performances in World Cup history, picking up seven wickets for just 18 runs in her seven overs. Her variations and control left the South African batters clueless. Megan Schutt, Kim Garthand Ashleigh Gardner chipped in with one wicket each, ensuring there was no recovery for the Proteas.

Australia coast home with ease

Chasing a modest target of 98, Australia lost a couple of early wickets but remained untroubled throughout the pursuit. Georgia Full anchored the innings with a fluent 38 off 38 balls, striking seven boundaries, while Beth Mooney played the finisher’s role perfectly, remaining unbeaten on 42 from 41 balls.

Their 70-run partnership took Australia within touching distance of victory.

Annabel Sutherland provided the finishing touches with a quickfire 10 off just four balls, sealing the win with style. Despite a disciplined spell from Marizanne Kappwho conceded only 11 runs in four overs and picked up a wicket, South Africa’s bowlers couldn’t build enough pressure to defend their low total.

For her extraordinary bowling performance, King was named Player of the Match. Her spell not only dismantled South Africa’s batting order but also reaffirmed her status as one of the world’s premier leg-spinners.

This article was first published at WomenCricket.coma Tezzbuzz company.