Australia commenced their title defence at the Women’s Cricket World Cup with an impressive victory over New Zealand, securing an 89-run win on October 5, 2023. The match, held at Holkar Stadium, saw Ash Gardner deliver a sensational performance, scoring 115 runs off 83 balls, marking the third-fastest century in World Cup history.
Gardner’s innings included 16 boundaries and a six, making her the first player to achieve a World Cup century while batting from the sixth position. This remarkable feat helped propel Australia to a total of 326 runs in 49.3 overs, the highest score ever recorded against New Zealand in the tournament, surpassing the previous record of 284 set by England in 2017.
The Australian innings began with Phoebe Litchfield setting a brisk pace, scoring 45 runs off just 31 balls, which included six fours and two sixes. Despite her aggressive start, Litchfield’s dismissal left Australia at 81 for 2, prompting a middle-order wobble. New Zealand’s Lea Tahuhu was particularly effective, taking three key wickets, including those of Ellyse Perry (33) and Beth Mooney (12) in quick succession. She later dismissed Tahlia McGrath (26), leaving Australia reeling at 128 for 5.
Gardner played a crucial role in stabilising the innings, forming a valuable partnership of 64 runs with McGrath for the sixth wicket. Her first fifty came off 43 balls, while the second arrived in just 34 balls, showcasing Australia’s aggressive batting approach in this historic match.
New Zealand’s chase began poorly, losing two wickets without scoring a run. Georgia Plimmer was run out, and Suzie Bates was bowled by Sophie Molineux. Despite Sophie Devine fighting valiantly with a century of her own—111 runs off 107 balls—New Zealand struggled to build momentum. At 36 years old, Devine became the third-oldest centurion in Women’s World Cup history.
While Devine found support from Amelia Kerr (33) in a 75-run partnership, the team ultimately collapsed after losing their final four wickets for just 19 runs, ending their innings at 237 runs in 43.2 overs. Molineux and Annabel Sutherland each took three wickets, with Molineux finishing with figures of 3 for 25 and Sutherland 3 for 26, securing Australia’s 16th consecutive ODI win against New Zealand.
The match highlighted Australia’s dominance in women’s cricket, setting the stage for a competitive tournament ahead. Fans can look forward to more action, with the Women’s Cricket World Cup being broadcast live on Sky Sports Cricket, culminating in the final on November 2, 2023.
