In a stunning display of skill at the Women’s World Cup, defending champions Australia secured a crushing seven-wicket victory over South Africa in Indore. The architect of their triumph was leg-spinner Alana King, whose remarkable spell saw her claim 7 wickets for just 18 runs across seven overs, dismantling the Proteas for a mere 97. This career-best, and indeed tournament-best, performance propelled Australia into a commanding position, setting up an eagerly anticipated semi-final showdown with hosts India in Navi Mumbai.
King’s entry into the attack during the 12th over proved to be a game-changer. With just her second ball, the astute leg-spinner began to weave her magic, extracting impressive turn, dip, and drift that consistently perplexed the South African lineup. Reflecting on her performance, King remarked, “We anticipated some turn from the pitch, so my goal was to maximize that. While some deliveries bit more than others, it felt fantastic to find my rhythm. I’m incredibly excited as we head into the knockout stage.”
South Africa’s innings started promisingly, with opener Laura Wolvaardt aggressively scoring 31 runs from just 26 balls, including four boundaries in one over. However, Alana King’s exceptional bowling soon dominated the game. She dismissed Wolvaardt with a sharp catch at short mid-wicket and then systematically dismantled the Proteas’ batting order, claiming key wickets including Sune Luus, Marizanne Kapp, Chloe Tryon, and Nadine de Klerk. Her devastating and disciplined spell, which featured two maiden overs, made history as the first-ever seven-wicket haul in the Women’s World Cup, surpassing Jackie Lord’s long-standing record of 6/10 set in 1982.
In pursuit of a modest target of 98, Australia faced an initial setback, losing Phoebe Litchfield for 5 and Ellyse Perry for a duck. However, a crucial 76-run partnership between Beth Mooney (42) and Georgia Voll (38 not out) stabilized the chase, guiding the team to a comfortable victory in just 16.5 overs.
With this victory, Australia concluded the league stage undefeated, cementing their top position and confirming their semi-final match-up against India. Meanwhile, South Africa is set to face England in Guwahati. Following the match, Wolvaardt praised King’s performance, stating, “It was a good wicket for batting, and King bowled exceptionally well. We simply need to regroup and concentrate on our next challenge.”
Alana King’s masterful leg-spin wizardry not only highlighted her individual brilliance and control but also underscored Australia’s overwhelming dominance throughout the World Cup. As the semi-finals approach, cricket enthusiasts can anticipate an electrifying contest. The seven-time champions, bolstered by King’s magical touch and a formidable batting lineup, are poised to defend their title against the host nation, India.