Indore, Oct 22 (NationPress) Ashleigh Gardner showcased her exceptional skills with a magnificent 104 not out, while Annabel Sutherland contributed a notable 98 not out, guiding Australia to a convincing six-wicket triumph against England at the Holkar Stadium. This victory not only propelled Australia to the top of the points table for the 2025 Women’s ODI World Cup but also highlighted their formidable batting prowess.

The impressive partnership of 180 runs between Ashleigh, who struck 16 boundaries, and Annabel, who hit nine fours along with a six, transformed Australia’s innings from a precarious position of 68/4 to a successful chase, finishing with 57 balls remaining.

Despite England's early advantage with four quick wickets, the dynamic duo of Ashleigh and Annabel executed a remarkable counter-attack, blending strength and precision, creating one of the tournament's most memorable partnerships.

Annabel, previously struggling for form, stepped up impressively, often outpacing Ashleigh until the latter surged ahead in the final stages. Ashleigh's transition from fifty to three figures took a mere 22 balls, showcasing her extraordinary batting form.

Earlier in the match, both players were effective with the ball, while Alana King’s economical spell of 1/20 in 10 overs significantly hindered England's scoring in the middle overs. Despite a strong start, England's bowlers were unable to maintain pressure once Annabel and Ashleigh combined to lead Australia to victory.

Even though both teams are already through to the semifinals, Australia made a strong statement about their capacity to produce match winners under pressure, demonstrating they can deliver when it counts.

Lauren Bell initiated England’s defense with a brilliant delivery that dismissed Phoebe Litchfield for just one run. England quickly followed up with another wicket before Linsey Smith dismissed Ellyse Perry, leaving Australia at 46/3 after the power-play, marking their first loss of three wickets in this phase of the tournament.

Annabel and Beth Mooney attempted to stabilize the situation with a 44-run partnership for the fourth wicket, but Mooney fell just before the drinks break, leaving Annabel to lead the charge.

Annabel effectively maneuvered the ball, driving Charlie Dean for four and sweeping Linsey Smith for six to bring up her fifty off 66 balls. Despite England’s attempts to curb Annabel's efforts, she continued to score freely, with Ashleigh matching her pace and style.

The pair continued to dominate, and Ashleigh reached her century with a thick edge that sped through deep third man for four runs. Annabel, who was dropped on 97, finished at 98 not out as Ashleigh ended the match with a stylish lofted off-drive, ensuring Australia maintained their unbeaten streak in the tournament.

Brief scores:

England 244/9 in 50 overs (Tammy Beaumont 78, Alice Capsey 38; Annabel Sutherland 3-60, Ashleigh Gardner 2-39) lost to Australia 248/4 in 40.3 overs (Ashleigh Gardner 104 not out, Annabel Sutherland 98 not out; Linsey Smith 2-43, Lauren Bell 1-48) by six wickets.

–IANS