Sophie Devine’s valiant effort of 112 runs fell short as Australia secured a commanding 89-run victory against New Zealand in their opening match of the ICC Women’s ODI World Cup at Holkar Stadium on Wednesday. New Zealand attempted to chase a target of 327 but faltered, being bowled out for 237 in 43.2 overs, with Devine’s performance being the standout for the White Ferns. Her century, completed off 112 balls and featuring 12 fours and three sixes, marked her as the fourth woman to surpass 4,000 ODI runs for New Zealand.
Australia’s innings had started strong, posting a formidable total of 326 all out within 49.3 overs, driven by Ashleigh Gardner’s impressive 115 and valuable contributions from the lower order. In reply, the New Zealand batting lineup struggled from the outset, losing two wickets in the first two overs. Georgia Plimmer was run out for a duck after a mix-up with Suzie Bates, who also followed suit, dismissed for no runs after an inside edge hit the stumps off Sophie Molineux.
Amelia Kerr and Sophie Devine managed to stabilize New Zealand’s innings with a promising 75-run partnership, briefly igniting hopes for a comeback. However, Australia’s leg-spinner Alana King quickly quelled those hopes by claiming two crucial wickets, leaving Devine without adequate support. The situation worsened for New Zealand when Maddy Green was run out during another mix-up, marking their second such dismissal of the innings. Izzy Gaze provided a spirited effort with a cameo of 28 runs, contributing to a 50-run stand with Devine before falling to Molineux.
The turning point came in the 43rd over when Annabel Sutherland took three wickets, including that of Devine, who had recently secured her ninth ODI century. With support diminishing, New Zealand struggled to mount any further resistance. Molineux concluded the innings decisively by removing Bree Illing, solidifying Australia’s emphatic victory. This match showcased Australia as strong contenders for the title as they commenced their title defense with a powerful performance.
In summary, Australia finished their innings at 326 all out in 49.3 overs, with key contributions from Ashleigh Gardner (115) and Phoebe Litchfield (45). New Zealand’s batsmen struggled, achieving only 237 all out in 43.2 overs, highlighted by Devine’s 112 and contributions from Amelia Kerr (33). Australia’s Sophie Molineux and Annabel Sutherland both took three wickets, effectively dismantling New Zealand’s batting order.
Original Source: https://www.india.com/sports/icc-womens-world-cup-australia-cruise-to-89-run-victory-despite-sophie-devines-fighting-century-8109718/
Category: Sports,Australia vs New Zealand,Georgia Plimmer,Holkar Stadium,Sophie Devine,Women’s World Cup
Tags:
Publish Date: 2025-10-02 02:01:00
