Australia kicked off their Women’s Cricket World Cup title defence with a commanding 89-run victory over New Zealand, with Ashleigh Gardner stealing the show with a blazing 115 off 83 balls. Her remarkable century, which was the third-fastest in Women’s World Cup history, helped Australia set a daunting target of 327. This match, played at Indore’s Holkar Stadium, marked the venue’s debut in hosting a women’s ODI, and it witnessed Gardner’s stunning display of power hitting, with 16 boundaries and one six.
The opening partnership of Phoebe Litchfield and Gardner set a strong tone for Australia. Litchfield contributed a quick-fire 45 from 31 balls before being dismissed in the 11th over. However, New Zealand responded with a strong bowling performance from medium pacer Lea Tahuhu, who claimed three crucial wickets, including that of Ellyse Perry for 33 and Beth Mooney for just 12. Australia found themselves reeling at 128 for five, but Gardner’s onslaught turned the tide.
Gardner, having reached her half-century off 43 balls, accelerated to her century in just 77 balls. Her partnership with Tahlia McGrath, who scored 26, helped lift Australia’s total to 326. This total turned out to be the highest ever posted by Australia against New Zealand in a Women’s World Cup match. Gardner’s strike rate was outstanding, and her role in rescuing Australia from a potential collapse highlighted her composure under pressure.
In response, New Zealand’s chase faltered from the outset. They were quickly reduced to 0 for 2, with Georgia Plimmer run out and Suzie Bates bowled out by Sophie Molineux, both for ducks. New Zealand’s captain Sophie Devine (111) and Amelia Kerr (33) tried to revive the innings, adding 75 runs for the third wicket. Devine’s century, the third-oldest in Women’s World Cup history, kept New Zealand’s hopes alive, but the chase was always uphill.
The middle-order partnerships fell short, and despite a valiant effort from Devine, who battled through until the 43rd over, New Zealand could only manage 237 runs before being bowled out. Molineux (3 for 25) and Annabel Sutherland (3 for 26) played key roles in dismantling New Zealand’s lower order, ensuring Australia’s comprehensive win.
Australia’s strong all-round performance, spearheaded by Gardner, was a clear statement of intent as they look to retain their World Cup crown.
