UPDATE: In a stunning performance, Alana King shattered records with a breathtaking bowling display of 7-18 as Australia decisively defeated South Africa by seven wickets in their final league match of the Women’s Cricket World Cup on July 15, 2023, in Indore, India. King’s remarkable effort led to South Africa being bowled out for just 97 runs in only 24 overs.
King’s historic performance marks the best-ever bowling figures in the Women’s Cricket World Cup, becoming the first bowler to achieve a seven-wicket haul in tournament history. The previous record was held by Jacqueline Lord of New Zealand, who recorded 6-10 against India in 1982. King expressed her delight, stating, “I am happy to extract as much out of it as possible,” after receiving the Player of the Match award.
Australia swiftly chased down the target, scoring 98-3 in just 16.5 overs, with Beth Mooney contributing 42 runs and Georgia Voll not out on 38. This victory not only ended South Africa’s impressive five-match winning streak but also secured Australia’s place at the top of the league table with six wins out of seven matches.
The loss marked South Africa’s lowest total against Australia in One Day Internationals (ODIs). Captain Laura Wolvaardt managed to score only 31 runs, while the rest of the batting lineup crumbled under King’s spell. The Proteas had a promising start but quickly fell apart, moving from 42-2 to 60-6 in a dramatic collapse.
Next, Australia will face co-host India in the second semifinal in Navi Mumbai on Thursday, July 20, 2023. South Africa, currently in second place, could still secure a third position if England defeats New Zealand in their final league match on July 16, 2023.
King’s exceptional performance halted South Africa’s momentum, as she claimed four wickets without conceding a run during a devastating six-over stretch. She initiated her onslaught in the 12th over, dismissing Sune Luus for just 6 runs, followed by Marizanne Kapp who went for a duck.
She continued her dominance with two more wickets in the 16th over, sending Annerie Dercksen and Chloe Tryon back to the pavilion, the latter for a golden duck. King capped her remarkable outing by bowling Nadine de Klerk to seal South Africa’s innings and achieve the best bowling figures in Australian women’s ODI history, surpassing the record previously held by teammate Ellyse Perry.
As Australia celebrates this historic win, fans eagerly await the upcoming semifinal showdown against India, where the stakes are higher than ever. The thrilling conclusion to the league stage of the Women’s Cricket World Cup is set to unfold with more exciting matches ahead. Stay tuned for updates!
