A clinical all-round performance powered Australia into the semifinals of the ICC Women’s World Cup 2025, as they demolished South Africa by seven wickets in Indore on Saturday. The victory not only ensured Australia’s unbeaten run in the tournament but also set up a mouthwatering semifinal clash with India on October 30 in Navi Mumbai.
King Spins a Web of Gold
Leg-spinner Alana King produced one of the greatest bowling performances in Women’s World Cup history, claiming 7 wickets for just 18 runs — the best-ever figures in the tournament’s history and the first-ever seven-wicket haul by an Australian woman in World Cup cricket.
Coming into the attack after the powerplay, King completely dismantled South Africa’s middle order, removing the likes of Sune Luus, Marizanne Kapp, Annerie Dercksen, Sinalo Jafta, Chloe Tryon, Masabata Klaas, and Nadine de Klerk. Her spell left the Proteas reeling and eventually bowled out for 97 runs at the Holkar Stadium.
Earlier, Megan Schutt had drawn first blood, dismissing Laura Wolvaardt for 31, while Kim Garth sent back Tazmin Brits to give Australia early momentum. Ash Gardner chipped in with a wicket of her own as the South African lineup crumbled under relentless spin pressure.
Mooney and Voll Seal It Calmly
Chasing a modest target of 98, Australia stumbled early to 11/2 after Marizanne Kapp dismissed Phoebe Litchfield, and Ellyse Perry fell to a sharp catch by Nadine de Klerk off Masabata Klaas.
However, Beth Mooney (42 off 41) and Georgia Voll (38 off 38)* steadied the ship with a composed partnership, guiding the Aussies home with seven wickets in hand.
On a Roll
The defending champions remain unbeaten in the competition, having earlier pulled off a record run chase against India in the league stage. With multiple match-winners delivering throughout the campaign, Australia look the team to beat once again.
South Africa, despite the heavy loss, have qualified for the semis and will face England on October 29 in Guwahati, hoping to bounce back strong.
For now, it’s all about Alana King’s historic spell — a performance that will be etched in World Cup folklore.
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